B2 – Upper Intermediate
In December 2024, Australia introduced a strict new law that stops children under 16 from using social media. The goal is to protect kids from dangers like online bullying and mental health problems. Big platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook could be fined up to 50 million AUD ($33 million USD) if they don’t block underage users. Unlike other countries, Australia won’t make exceptions for parents giving permission, and old accounts won’t be allowed to stay active.
Watch the video below and be able to answer the questions that follow.
Vocabulary Questions:
- What does the informal phrase “I got your back” mean? “Banning social media use for children under 16 is the strictest regulation of its kind globally. “We’ve got your back” is our message to Australian parents.” Make your own sentence using this expression.
- What does the word “loophole” mean? “Young Australians affected by the ban say they would resort to finding loopholes.” Use the word in a sentence.
- What does the idiom “to go behind one’s back” mean? “Teens are going to go behind their parents’ backs if they are banned from social media.” Use it in a sentence.
Discussion Questions:
- What potential benefits and drawbacks could arise from banning social media for children under 16 in Australia?
- Do you think banning social media for children under 16 is the best way to protect their mental health, or are there better alternatives?
- Should governments have the authority to restrict access to social media for specific age groups, or should this be a parental responsibility?
- How might this law affect the development of digital literacy and social skills among young people in Australia?