X opposes Australian bill on under-16 social media ban

The social media platform X has formally objected to proposed Australian legislation that would strengthen enforcement of a ban on users under 16, arguing the measures violate international law and could undermine global legal cooperation. The company’s submission to an Australian Senate committee, published on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, targets a bill that would expand the investigative powers of the nation’s eSafety Commissioner and significantly increase financial penalties.

Australia’s pioneering law, which prohibits social media accounts for children under 16, took effect in December 2025. The government now seeks to double the maximum fine for non-compliance to A$99 million (US$69 million) and grant the regulator broader authority to compel the production of documents during investigations. In its filing, X argued these amendments would unfairly compel individuals outside Australia to provide information merely because they are affiliated with a company under scrutiny. The company stated this approach is “in clear conflict with international legal principles” and warned of a “severe impact on international comity,” a term referring to mutual respect between national legal...