Billionaire Elon Musk slammed the Australian government for proposing a law banning social media for kids under 16. 

The X owner called the bill “a backdoor way to control access to the internet by all Australians.”

Musk’s reaction came hours after the Australian government on Thursday (Nov 21), introduced the bill in parliament. 

Australia introduced the bill highlighting the need for an age verification system. If implemented, this will be one of the strictest social media regulations in the world. 

Companies found breaching the proposed regulation could be fined up to 32 million USD. 

Minister for Communications Michelle Rowland said in a statement that social media companies had a responsibility for the “safety and mental health” of Australians, AFP reported. 

Australian tech companies said they will adhere to new regulations but also jointly suggested the government not to take any action too quickly, AFP reported. 

“The legislation places the onus on social media platforms, not parents or children, to ensure protections are in place,” AFP quoted Rowland saying. 

Musk has a long history of clashing with the Australian government on social media policies. 

In April 2024, an Australian cyber regulator asked Musk-owned platform, X, to remove posts about a stabbing incident. 

When the platform refused the request, the Australian prime minister called Musk an “arrogant billionaire.” Musk also hit back at the government calling its laws and policies “fascist.” 

Australia is not the first country to implement or introduce such a strict social media regulation. 

Last year, France proposed a social media ban for children under 15, however, permitted parental consent. 

The United States law requires parental consent if children under 13 want to access social media.

 

Spain, in June 2024, passed a law banning social media access to those under the age of 16.  

(With inputs from agencies)