"Nazi-level propaganda with calls for violence" – Australian PM uses graphic language in parliament to advocate for a tougher social media ban for under-16s.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese spoke in parliament on Thursday, calling for an expansion of Australia's under-16 social media ban. He cited alarming concerns about young Australians being exposed to harmful content, including pornography and violent material, and used graphic language that quickly went viral online.
Albanese stated that algorithms push users toward extreme positions, resulting in "Nazi-level propaganda with calls for violence." He also described physical harms observed in hospitals: "increased presentations of young women who have been choked, strangled" and "anal tearing growing at an extraordinary, horrific rate."
Official records confirm the remarks were made and are available on the Australian parliament YouTube channel and Hansard.
The comments drew surprise on social media, with some users questioning the appropriateness of the language. The government plans to strengthen online safety laws amid evidence that children are still accessing major platforms despite age restrictions.
Background: The 'Manosphere' and Its Impact
The speech comes amid rising attention to the "manosphere," an online subculture characterized by anti-feminist and misogynistic ideologies. Recent research from Movember indicates that 68% of young Australian men regularly engage with masculinity content, which is associated with poorer mental health outcomes and regressive attitudes toward women. Public awareness has been boosted by media coverage, including a Louis Theroux documentary and the drama series Adolescence.
Key Statements from Figures
- Isabelle Younane, Head of External Affairs at Women's Aid, commented that many "manosphere" influencers promote success alongside misogyny, which is "enormously disturbing."
- UK TikToker Harrison Sullivan was filmed suggesting men should act as "dictators" in relationships and used derogatory language toward women.
- American influencer Justin Waller questioned women's contributions to society in the documentary.