Anika Wells Named to TIME100 Next 2026 for Role in Australia’s Social Media Law
Australian Communications Minister Anika Wells has been named to TIME100 Next 2026, TIME magazine’s annual list recognizing emerging leaders from around the world.
The Australian Financial Review reported that Wells was recognized in connection with her role in Australia’s legislation restricting social media access for people under 16.
The measure makes social media platforms responsible for preventing children under 16 from maintaining accounts, with penalties applying to platforms that fail to comply. The Australian government has described the legislation as a major step to address online harms affecting young people.
Wells is among the Australian figures recognized by TIME as part of its 2026 list of emerging leaders. TIME describes TIME100 Next as a selection of people helping shape the next generation of leadership.
