The issue has already drawn attention from the US, with President Donald Trump’s administration raising concerns as part of trade tariff negotiations, particularly regarding US-based tech companies.

In a televised debate, Albanese and opposition Liberal leader Peter Dutton both reaffirmed their commitment to legislation that will require social media companies to pay for local news hosted on their platforms.

The laws will also impose restrictions, including limiting access to platforms like X, Facebook, and Instagram for users under 16, starting in December.

Both leaders have positioned themselves as staunch defenders of the proposed regulations, despite the likely pushback from powerful social media companies, highlighting a growing international dialogue on the intersection of social media governance.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said his government “won’t budge” on the issue of restricting children under 16 from accessing social media platforms like X, Facebook, and Instagram.

During the debate on the Nine Network Albanese said, “The social media ban that Australia is implementing with bipartisan support is world-leading,”

“There’s no question in my mind that in the lead-up to December, when it comes into force, you will see major pressure being placed by some of the social media giants.” he said.

Dutton stated that his Liberal and National coalition is “on a unity ticket” with Albanese’s Labor Party regarding the issue.

He criticised multinational tech companies, claiming they view children merely as “a commodity, a profit line online.”

“We’ve worked tirelessly to hold these companies accountable,” Dutton said. “Our goal is to create a safer online environment and ensure that major media companies treat our children with the respect they deserve, in line with the law—not like it’s some lawless zoo.”

As the debate continues to heat up ahead of Australia’s national election on May 3, the issue of social media regulation remains a key point of contention.

While Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Opposition Leader Peter Dutton have both expressed strong support for laws that protect children from online harm, the pressure from global tech giants is expected to intensify as the December deadline approaches.

Opinion polls suggest that Dutton is currently trailing behind Albanese in what has become a tight race. Voters continue to voice concerns over cost-of-living pressures and the housing crisis, issues that are likely to weigh heavily on their decisions at the ballot box.