Australia Plans Social Media Ban for Youth

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced plans to ban children from accessing social media, proposing a minimum age limit between 14 and 16 due to concerns over mental health and social harm. While many parents support the move, some experts criticize it as oversimplified and potentially harmful, arguing it might drive teens to use social media secretly or prevent them from accessing necessary support. The legislation, expected to be introduced this year, aligns with similar efforts in other Asia-Pacific countries. Opposition leader Peter Dutton supports the age limit but accuses Albanese of rushing the policy. The government will test various age verification methods before finalizing the age restriction.