Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday praised Australia’s decision to restrict social media access for children under the age of 16, saying the country’s approach to regulating digital platforms and protecting young users offered important lessons for India and the world. Modi made the remarks while addressing the Australia-India Annual Leaders’ Summit in Melbourne. Speaking at the gathering alongside Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Modi highlighted Australia’s efforts to introduce changes in information technology and social media regulations. He said measures aimed at protecting society from potential risks associated with digital platforms represented a significant step that other countries could study.

“The way you are bringing changes in laws related to information technology and social media, and working to protect society, is highly inspiring for the world. We are learning a lot from your efforts and taking many lessons from them,” Modi said during his address. Australia’s move to restrict social media access for users below 16 has been aimed at addressing concerns over online safety, mental health risks, exposure to harmful content and the impact of excessive digital engagement among children and teenagers. The policy has drawn global attention as governments worldwide debate how to balance digital access with child protection.

Modi said the evolving nature of technology requires governments to create frameworks that safeguard citizens while encouraging innovation. He emphasised that responsible use of digital platforms and effective regulation are becoming increasingly important as societies become more dependent on online services for communication, education and commerce. The Prime Minister’s remarks came during his official visit to Australia, where India and Australia discussed expanding cooperation across multiple sectors, including technology, defence, trade, education and critical industries. Both countries have been working to strengthen their strategic partnership, particularly in areas related to emerging technologies and digital transformation.

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Social media regulation has become a major policy issue globally, with governments examining ways to protect younger users from online risks while ensuring freedom of expression and access to information. Concerns about cyberbullying, data privacy, misinformation and the effects of prolonged screen exposure have pushed several countries to consider stricter safeguards. India has also been engaged in discussions around digital regulation, online safety and responsible technology use. The country has introduced several measures related to data protection, platform accountability and digital governance, while continuing to balance regulatory oversight with the growth of its technology sector.

During the summit, Modi said India and Australia could benefit from sharing experiences and collaborating on challenges emerging from rapid technological change. He noted that international cooperation would be crucial in developing policies that ensure technology serves society while minimising potential harms. Australia’s under-16 social media restrictions have become one of the most closely watched examples of government intervention in the digital space. Modi’s comments indicate that India is observing such international approaches as it continues to shape its own policies for managing the opportunities and challenges created by expanding digital platforms.

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