LinkedIn claims it should not be part of Australia’s proposed social media ban for children under 16. The platform argues that its content is too “boring” to attract minors.
In its submission to an Australian Senate committee, LinkedIn, owned by Microsoft, stated, “LinkedIn simply does not have content interesting and appealing to minors.”
The Australian government is advancing legislation to block children from accessing social media platforms, describing it as “world-leading.” However, major tech companies, including Meta, Google, Snap Inc., and TikTok, have criticized the proposal in their submissions to lawmakers.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the legislation aims to protect children from social media’s harm. He called it a measure for “mums and dads” who are “worried sick about the safety of our kids online.”
Other countries, like the UK, are observing Australia’s actions, with some considering similar laws.
Tech Industry Pushback
Major tech companies have voiced concerns over the proposed law. Google and Meta have asked for more time to evaluate the bill. Meta claims the law won’t ease the burden on parents managing online safety. It also argued that the bill “ignores the evidence” from child safety and mental health experts—a sentiment shared by Snap in its submission.
X (formerly Twitter) raised questions about the bill’s legality. TikTok Australia expressed “significant concerns,” highlighting the importance of successful age verification trials for the law’s effectiveness.
TikTok’s public policy director for Australia and New Zealand, Ella Woods-Joyce, warned that rushing the bill could lead to “unintended consequences.”
The Australian Senate’s Environment and Communications Legislation Committee provided only one day for comments on the bill. It recommended passing the legislation with suggestions, such as involving young people in its implementation.
LinkedIn’s Unique Position
LinkedIn has taken a different stance compared to other platforms. With a minimum age of 16, LinkedIn argued that it does not attract children. The platform emphasized it removes child accounts when identified and shouldn’t be included in the legislation.
LinkedIn stated that regulation under the proposed law would impose “unnecessary barriers and costs” for its Australian members regarding age assurance. Exclusion from the bill could save LinkedIn from implementing costly age verification measures.
Global Attention and Privacy Concerns
Australia aims to pass the legislation by the end of the parliamentary year. However, experts argue the timeline is too tight for proper scrutiny.
Australia’s privacy commissioner, Carly Kind, raised concerns about the legislation’s broader privacy implications. Human rights commissioner Lorraine Findlay criticized the limited time for public feedback, calling it “entirely inadequate.”
Despite concerns, the legislation has drawn international attention. UK technology secretary Peter Kyle mentioned similar laws as “on the table.” France already enforces social media age restrictions, though many users bypass the ban with simple VPNs.
