'Dawdling': push to strengthen teen social media ban

Push for stronger penalties against social media companies targeting under-16s gains support, despite concerns over effectiveness. Despite Australia's ban on under-16s social media use, about 80% of teenagers still utilize platforms, according to research from June. Communications Minister Anika Wells criticized the current age verification measures as ineffective, calling for loopholes to be closed and parents to be empowered to report underage usage.

The Senate has passed amendments suggesting fines up to $109.2 million for non-compliance, with the eSafety Commissioner gaining enhanced investigative powers. However, the Greens have proposed an algorithm opt-in as the default setting, arguing that without additional laws, social media remains harmful for all age groups. The government plans to release draft legislation allowing users to opt out of algorithms, aiming to reduce addiction while acknowledging it won't eliminate all issues on digital platforms.