Social media firms urge caution on early Australia under-16 ban data
XLC•Lawmakers consider tougher penalties and broader powers
The inquiry is examining amendments that would double maximum penalties to A$99 million ($64 million) and expand the commissioner's powers to compel information and documents from platforms and their third-party age assurance providers during investigations.
Platforms caution against reading too much into early data
Top social media platforms urged the Australian government not to place too much weight on early evidence showing most children still use their products despite a landmark under-16 ban, as lawmakers weigh tougher penalties and investigative powers for regulators.
Local heads of YouTube owner Google, Facebook and Instagram owner Meta, Snapchat and TikTok fronted a Senate inquiry as lawmakers pressed them on multiple studies, including from Australia's internet regulator, showing some 80% of minors were still on social media months after the ban took effect in December.
