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The nation's bold policy to prohibit social networking access for those under 16 is creating waves internationally. Politicians, safety advocates, and parents are watching intently to see if this approach will set a precedent for countries abroad.

The European Momentum

Across Europe, a increasing group of countries are considering similar restrictions.

• The Danish government plans a restriction on social media for under-15s, with the leader stating that mobile devices and networks are "stealing our kids' youth". A law is expected to be formalized soon.
• The Norwegian government is set to enforce a age restriction of 15, citing the need to safeguard children from the "power of the AI".
• Ireland is introducing a digital ID system to confirm the identity and age of social media participants. The media minister have indicated that an Australia-style ban is "an measures in reserve".
• In The Spanish government, the president has urged lawmakers to pass a proposal lifting the access age for joining social media to 16.
• In France, the president has threatened a ban for children below 15, and a legislative committee has recommended a comparable action, including an overnight "screen time restriction" for adolescents.
• The administration in the Netherlands has recommended guardians to prevent their kids from social media until 15.

For the broader EU, the European parliament has passed a advisory statement calling for a ban for under-16s without parental consent is given. Even though it highlights of the "addictive" quality of these services, the resolution does not create enforceable legislation.

"An effective age restriction is a useful starting point," stated a leading parliamentarian driving the measure.

The United Kingdom: A Cautious Eye

In the UK, the government has kept open a possible ban, emphasizing that "no option is discarded" but insisting any policy must be "supported by strong evidence".

Previously, interest gathered behind a bill to introduce restrictions on social media use by minors, but it was ultimately modified. Nonetheless, the government pledged to further research the matter.

Campaign organizations have expressed apprehensions. One foundation founded by the loved ones of a teenager who was lost after being exposed to disturbing platform posts contends that a simple age ban might not make platforms safer and could lead to a "sudden drop-off" of exposure when young people become eligible.

"The Australian ban is a reaction to the failure of the social media companies to build products and services that are safe and age appropriate for young users," commented a prominent online safety campaigner.

The US: A Fragmented Picture

In the United States, action is mostly unfolding at the regional level due to national stalemate.

• Utah demands adult approval for under-18s to use social media and restricts nighttime use.
• Florida has passed a law barring under-14s from joining social media, though it faces legal challenges.
• Virginia has passed a regulation limiting under-16s to one hour of social media use per day, with extra use needing adult consent.
• Georgia, Tennessee, and Louisiana have also passed measures mandating parental consent for teenagers to create social media presences.

Even with cross-party agreement and proposals from some individuals to copy the Australian example, a nationwide ban is presently seen as a distant prospect.

International Outlook

Beyond Europe and the US, other states are likewise exploring options.

• Malaysia plans to prohibit social media for under-16s starting from next year.
• The Brazilian authorities has raised the required age for one major platform to 16.

Yet, world agencies adopt a more measured stance. A major UN agency has cautioned that social media bans carry risks and "may even have unintended consequences". The body points out that the internet can be a "vital connection" for isolated children and that bans should not be a "excuse" for tech companies to prioritize user protection.

Even as this global conversation continues, the policies of the Australian government and others show that governments globally are no longer content to delay for platforms to make changes on their own.