Elon Musk’s X Corporation has expressed significant reservations about the Australian government's proposed Online Safety Amendment (Social Media Minimum Age) Bill 2024, which seeks to ban social media use for children under 16. The company raised concerns about the bill’s legality, compatibility with existing laws, and potential human rights implications.
Criticism of Legislative Process
X Corporation criticized the “unreasonably short timeframe” allowed for public submissions on the proposed legislation. It also questioned the bill’s compliance with international treaties, such as the U.N. Convention on the Rights of the Child, emphasizing that the platform is not widely used by minors and does not target them through its business practices or advertising.
The bill proposes fines of up to $49.5 million for platforms that fail to prevent underage access. Social media companies would also be required to implement age verification mechanisms to identify Australian children under 16.
Human Rights and Practical Concerns
The company expressed concern about the bill's potential to infringe on children’s rights, including freedom of expression, and highlighted shared concerns from the Australian Human Rights Commission and other organizations. Additionally, X criticized the lack of evidence supporting the effectiveness of a social media ban and noted that previous government reports have raised concerns about the negative impact such a policy could have on young people.
Parental Responsibility and Broader Solutions
X argued the bill disproportionately shifts responsibility onto social media platforms while neglecting the role of parents and caregivers in monitoring children’s online activity. The company called for a more flexible approach to age verification, suggesting that solutions implemented at the device or app store level could better balance privacy and protection.
Broader Implications and Global Coordination
The platform also warned that the bill’s accelerated timeline leaves little room for thorough consideration of alternative solutions. It urged collaboration with international regulators to address potential conflicts with other jurisdictions, such as the UK and the US.
Tech billionaire Elon Musk added his voice to the debate, suggesting that the legislation might lead to the introduction of a national ID system, potentially restricting internet access for Australians.
Government and Bipartisan Support
Communications Minister Michelle Rowland defended the bill, stating that it aims to place responsibility on platforms to protect children online. Despite bipartisan support, some Coalition members have expressed concerns over privacy and the possible introduction of mandatory digital IDs. Shadow Minister Bridget McKenzie emphasized the need for privacy safeguards while supporting robust protections for children under 16 on social media platforms.
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