Australia’s social media ban for minors failed to boost safety, pushing teens to riskier platforms and sparking backlash over overreach.

Australia’s ban on social media for minors has drawn criticism for failing to improve online safety, with experts warning it pushes users to riskier, unregulated platforms—similar to past failed prohibition policies. While the government claims the move sparked national and international dialogue, evidence of reduced harm is lacking. Critics say the poorly drafted hate speech law, backed by bipartisan opposition, relies on blunt bans instead of addressing root issues like algorithmic exposure. The article urges a shift toward transparency, user control, and meaningful regulation over sweeping prohibitions.