Tech giants Google and Meta have called on the Australian government to postpone a proposed bill that would ban children under 16 from accessing most social media platforms. The companies argue that more time is needed to assess the bill’s implications and await the results of an ongoing age-verification trial.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s government is pushing to pass the legislation—set to be one of the world’s strictest on children’s social media use—by Thursday, the final day of the parliamentary year. Critics have slammed the expedited process, as the bill was introduced just last week and allowed only a single day for public submissions.
The proposed law would shift responsibility for age verification from parents and children to social media companies, requiring them to implement measures like biometrics or government-issued identification. Companies failing to comply could face fines of up to A$49.5 million ($32 million).
Meta has labelled the bill “inconsistent and ineffective,” urging the government to wait for results from the age-verification trial. Google echoed these concerns, calling for a more deliberate approach to ensure Australians understand the potential impact of the legislation.
TikTok also expressed “significant concerns” about the lack of consultation with experts, mental health organizations, and young people. “Novel policies must be carefully drafted to ensure their success,” the company said in a statement.
Elon Musk’s platform, X, has opposed the bill as well, arguing it could infringe on children’s human rights, including their freedom of expression and access to information. Musk, an outspoken advocate for free speech, accused the government of using the bill as a veiled attempt to control internet access.
While the opposition Liberal Party has indicated support for the bill, some independent lawmakers have criticized the government for rushing its passage. A Senate committee report on the legislation is expected on Tuesday, which could influence the final debate before Thursday’s vote.
