Sydney – Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on December 1 dismissed criticism by Elon Musk of the country’s newly legislated social media ban for children under 16, saying the billionaire and X (formerly Twitter) owner was “pushing an agenda” for his platform. However, Albanese indicated he was open to discussions with Musk regarding the policy.
The controversial ban, passed on November 28 after heated debate, requires tech companies like Meta (owner of Instagram and Facebook) and TikTok to block minors from logging into their platforms or face fines of up to A$49.5 million (S$43 million). Enforcement trials are set to begin in January 2025, with the ban taking full effect a year later.
Musk, who posted earlier this month that the legislation appeared to be a “backdoor way to control access to the Internet by all Australians,” has sparked concerns about potential implications for internet freedom. Musk is also a key ally of U.S. president-elect Donald Trump, which could strain Australia’s relationship with the United States.
Asked about Musk’s comments, Albanese told ABC television, “We’ll talk to anyone,” while also adding, “With regard to Elon Musk, he has an agenda, and he’s entitled to push that as the owner of X.”
Albanese emphasized the government’s commitment to enforcing the ban, calling it a “world-leading” effort to regulate Big Tech and protect children. The legislation, passed with bipartisan support, was among 31 bills fast-tracked through Parliament on its chaotic final day for 2024.
Representatives for X did not immediately respond to requests for comment.