New Zealand’s Prime Minister has suggested banning individuals under the age of 16 from using social media, aiming to safeguard young people from potential harms such as exposure to adult content and cyberbullying. Christopher Luxon stated on Tuesday that the draft legislation would require social media platforms to verify users’ ages to ensure they are at least 16 before allowing them to create accounts. Non-compliance would result in fines up to NZ$2m ($1.2m). Despite acknowledging the positive aspects of social media, Luxon emphasized that it can pose significant threats to the well-being of young individuals, and tech companies must be held accountable for this. The proposed ban, which mirrors a similar law in Australia, follows concerns raised by parents and educators regarding cyberbullying, addiction, and access to harmful content. Luxon underscored that parents are struggling to control their children’s social media access.
The bill, authored by National MP Catherine Wedd, aims to address the lack of enforceable age verification measures in New Zealand, thereby supporting families in managing their children’s online activities. Australia, a leader in social media regulation, implemented a similar but controversial ban in November, facing resistance from technology giants. A 1News Verian poll conducted in December found that more than two-thirds of New Zealanders support restricting social media access for those under 16. Luxon’s center-right National party, part of the governing coalition, drafted the bill and will require the support of coalition partners for it to be passed in parliament. The timing of the bill’s introduction remains uncertain, but Luxon is hopeful it will garner bipartisan support.
Opposition Labour leader Chris Hipkins expressed openness to the idea, stating that it is a necessary conversation for New Zealand to have, drawing inspiration from Australia’s bold move in tackling social media risks.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/may/06/new-zealand-pm-luxon-social-media-ban-children
