Australia claims it is a global pioneer in preventing online harm - should other countries follow suit?
As Anthony Albanese heads to the US to discuss social media reform, he has shown a level of leadership not always expected from a smaller country Get our new political email , free app or daily news podcast Statesmen, shysters, dictators. Over the years, the United Nations has seen all kinds of world leaders. But when he arrives in New York on Monday for the annual general assembly, Anthony…
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is set to travel to the United States, where he plans to discuss social media reform with US leaders. He has shown a level of leadership that is not often expected from a smaller country, as Australia has taken significant steps to prevent online harm, particularly for children. In 2021, Australia introduced a ban on social media accounts for individuals under 16, which has resulted in the closure of approximately 5 million accounts.
Albanese believes that only a concerted effort by countries around the world will be enough to force change in the way social media giants are allowed to operate. The Australian government is now planning to introduce legislation that will require social media platforms to provide users with more control over their feeds and hold them accountable for harmful content.
The Prime Minister is optimistic that by working with other countries, they can spur a global movement for change and set the world standard for digital safety.
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