SYDNEY – Australia’s government-backed age-verification trial has concluded that current technology is capable of enforcing a nationwide ban on social media access for children under the age of 16, marking a significant step toward implementing what could become the world’s first such policy at a national level.
The Age Assurance Technology Trial involved over 1,000 schoolchildren and hundreds of adults, testing several verification methods such as facial recognition, document authentication, and artificial intelligence tools across major platforms including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat.
Officials announced on Friday that the trial found no significant technological barriers in restricting access based on age. The initiative is part of Australia’s broader plan to enforce a new law by December, which will require social media companies to take “reasonable steps” to block underage users. Platforms that fail to comply could face penalties of up to AUD 49.5 million (approximately USD 32 million).
Tony Allen, Chief Executive of the UK-based Age Check Certification Scheme, one of the trial’s key collaborators, noted that while no single method was foolproof, a layered and flexible approach could be both effective and privacy-conscious. He stressed the importance of giving platforms options that align with user protection and data minimization.
However, digital rights advocates remain cautious. Some experts have raised concerns that aggressive enforcement may lead to unnecessary data collection, posing risks to user privacy. The trial acknowledged these issues, emphasizing that privacy-preserving solutions must be prioritized during rollout.
Australia’s move has gained international attention, with policymakers in Europe, the United Kingdom, and the United States watching closely. As concerns rise globally over the mental health impacts of social media on teenagers and increasing exposure to harmful content, Australia’s model could influence future legislation worldwide.
Critics of the ban argue that tech-savvy teens may find ways to bypass restrictions and warn that the policy could unintentionally isolate vulnerable youth who rely on digital platforms for social support. Nonetheless, public sentiment in Australia appears to favor stricter age controls, reflecting a growing demand for greater accountability from social media giants.
The Australian government is expected to release a full report next month based on the trial findings. Meanwhile, the eSafety Commissioner is working on drafting implementation standards, with public consultations planned in the weeks ahead.
If fully implemented, the policy would position Australia as a global frontrunner in digital child protection, setting a precedent for how nations manage the intersection of youth, technology, and online safety.
Reported by PakTribune News Desk
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