Prince Harry publicly commended Australia’s bold decision to restrict social media access for those under 16, calling the move a powerful display of leadership. The new law, set to take effect in December 2025, will limit access to popular platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook, sparking global interest and inspiring similar considerations elsewhere.
Canada is already responding to the Australian example, with federal leaders recently supporting a resolution to establish 16 as the minimum age for social media use. This places the onus on technology companies to enforce the restriction, signaling a growing concern over the impact of these platforms on young people.
Harry emphasized he wasn’t there to debate the specifics of the policy, but to acknowledge the strength of the intent behind it. He described the Australian approach as “epic” from a standpoint of responsibility and leadership, during a discussion with young people hosted by the mental health organization Batyr in Melbourne.
Meghan Markle, speaking to the same audience, offered a deeply personal account of her decade-long experience with online harassment. She revealed she was once the most trolled person globally, enduring relentless bullying and attacks.
Meghan was direct in her assessment of the social media landscape, describing it as a multi-billion dollar industry built on a foundation of cruelty designed to maximize clicks. She stressed the importance of resilience, stating that the inherent nature of these platforms is unlikely to change.
Harry also shared a vulnerable reflection on the profound loss of his mother, Princess Diana, when he was just 12 years old. He described feeling “lost, betrayed, or completely powerless” in the aftermath, even harboring resentment towards his royal position.
He confessed to initially rejecting the media landscape, believing it had contributed to his mother’s death and actively avoiding engagement for years. This period of denial eventually gave way to a shift in perspective.
Harry realized he could leverage his position and resources to create positive change, honoring his mother’s legacy. This realization fundamentally altered his approach and fueled his commitment to addressing the challenges posed by the modern world.
This visit to Australia marks the couple’s first return since 2018, when they were still active members of the royal family and announced Meghan’s pregnancy in Sydney. Their decision to step back from royal duties in 2020 stemmed from a desire for financial independence and a need to escape intense media scrutiny.
The couple sought a life free from what they described as relentless intrusion, a desire that now resonates with a broader conversation about the impact of social media and the need for greater protection, particularly for young people.
