Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday praised Australia’s decision to ban children under 16 from using major social media platforms, calling the move an example from which India and the rest of the world can learn.
Addressing a crowd during the annual Australia-India Leaders Summit in Melbourne, Modi said Australia’s efforts to regulate social media and protect young users set an important precedent.
While addressing leaders including his counterpart Anthony Albanese, he said, “The way you are introducing changes in laws related to information technology and social media, and working to protect society, is very inspiring to the world. We are learning a lot from your efforts and learning many lessons from them.”
Modi’s comments came during a visit that saw India and Australia sign a series of key agreements covering civil nuclear energy, maritime security and vital minerals.
The Prime Minister held wide-ranging talks with his Australian counterpart, Anthony Albanese, a day after his arrival in Australia from Indonesia during the second leg of his three-country tour. The main outcome was the conclusion of a civil nuclear power agreement that would facilitate the commercial supply of Australian uranium for the Indian nuclear power programme.
Australia bans social media for under 16s
Modi was referring to Australia’s landmark social media law that bans children under 16 from maintaining accounts on several major platforms.
This legislation, which comes into effect in December 2025, makes Australia the first country in the world to implement such a nationwide restriction. Platforms covered by the law include TikTok, X, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and Snapchat.
Under the rules, social media companies must take “reasonable steps” to prevent underage users from creating or maintaining accounts. The Australian government has recommended that platforms use multiple methods to verify the age of users and ensure compliance.
The law has attracted global attention as governments grapple with concerns about the impact of social media on children’s mental health, safety and wellbeing online.
More countries are considering restrictions
Australia is not the only country exploring stricter controls on children’s access to social media.
The UK has also entered the discussion, with interim Prime Minister Keir Starmer recently announcing plans to ban children under 16 from accessing major social media platforms while imposing restrictions on gaming and streaming services.
Many other countries have introduced or proposed restrictions based on age. Australia, Canada, Brazil and Indonesia have gone ahead with restrictions, while France, Spain, Denmark, Thailand and South Korea are considering similar measures.
