NextFin news, Elon Musk’s social media platform X has formally opposed Australia’s recently passed legislation that bans social media access for users under the age of 16, stating on Thursday, September 25, 2025, that the ban violates human rights.
The Australian government introduced the legislation to restrict social media use among children under 16, aiming to protect young users from online harms. However, X, formerly known as Twitter, has argued that the policy infringes on the rights of young people to freedom of expression and access to information.
In a statement reported by The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald, X requested a six-month delay in the roll-out of the legislation to allow for further review and discussion on its lawfulness and policy implications. The platform emphasized concerns about the enforceability of the ban and its potential to set a precedent for digital rights restrictions.
The debate over the ban has attracted international attention, with some critics warning that such restrictions could undermine fundamental human rights protections. X’s opposition aligns with broader concerns about government regulation of digital platforms and the balance between child safety and freedom of speech.
The Australian government, led by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, has defended the legislation as a necessary measure to safeguard children from the negative impacts of social media, including exposure to harmful content and mental health risks. The government has also called on other nations to consider similar protections.
Communications Minister Anika Wells has indicated ongoing consultations with social media companies and stakeholders to ensure the legislation’s effective implementation while addressing concerns raised by platforms like X.
The legislation includes provisions for age verification and penalties for platforms that fail to comply. However, critics, including X, have questioned the technical feasibility and privacy implications of such measures.
This development comes amid a global conversation on regulating social media to protect vulnerable users without compromising digital rights. The Australian case is being closely watched by policymakers and tech companies worldwide.
As of Thursday, September 25, 2025, no official government response to X’s request for a delay has been announced.
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