Thu Sep 12 00:11:36 UTC 2024: ## Government Takes Aim at Online Misinformation, Bans Kids from Social Media

**Canberra, Australia** – The Australian government has launched a two-pronged attack on the dangers of online misinformation and the potential harm of social media on children. Today, Communications Minister Michelle Rowland introduced legislation aimed at tackling the spread of “seriously harmful and verifiably false” misinformation and disinformation, while also pushing for a ban on children from using social media platforms.

The government’s proposal to ban children from social media, though gaining support from both the opposition and several states, lacks specifics like age limits and enforcement mechanisms. This initiative appears more symbolic, signaling to parents that the government is aware of their concerns.

The focus on combating misinformation, however, is more concrete. The reworked legislation builds upon a draft introduced last year and includes new measures like removing exemptions for government and political party content, potentially subjecting campaign materials to scrutiny.

The proposed law will create a mandatory code of conduct for social media platforms, obligating them to actively combat misinformation. Failure to comply could result in substantial fines, potentially reaching 5% of a company’s global turnover.

While the opposition has historically been critical of the government’s approach to curbing online misinformation, recent incidents like the Bondi Junction stabbing, where false information spread quickly online, have spurred a bipartisan consensus on the need for action.

Despite the urgency, the bill faces an uphill battle in a crowded legislative calendar. The government is already engaged in complex negotiations on other key policy areas, leaving limited time for this legislation to pass before the end of the year.

With elections looming in the spring, the government’s ability to secure passage for this bill remains uncertain. The success of these initiatives, aiming to protect both children and democracy, will ultimately depend on navigating the complexities of a crowded parliamentary agenda.

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