Federal Communications Minister Anika Wells has secured a spot on Time magazine’s Time100 Next list for 2026, recognized among the world’s most influential rising stars for spearheading Australia’s social media ban for children under 16. The policy, which came into force on December 10, 2025, resulted in the removal or deactivation of more than 4.7 million underage accounts, according to regional reporting.
Global Recognition for Minimum-Age Policy
The Time100 Next list highlights global figures the magazine characterizes as leaders shaping the future. Wells earned her place in the leaders category for driving the restrictions on youth social media usage, an initiative that has sparked similar legislative proposals across Europe, Asia, and several American states.
Former Labor Prime Minister Julia Gillard penned the testimonial accompanying Wells’ profile. Gillard praised the communications minister for challenging major technology companies.
"As the world grapples with the extraordinary power of social media and the increasingly pervasive role it plays, Anika Wells has emerged as one of the most significant voices in a growing global movement to reframe the relationship between technology and the well-being of our children," Gillard wrote, describing Wells’ reforms as courageous and trailblazing.
Ongoing Regulatory Battles and Political Pushback
While the restrictions have drawn international attention, enforcement remains contentious. Certain social media platforms face criticism for permitting young teenagers to bypass the age limits. At the same time, Wells is advancing a digital duty of care framework designed to let account holders opt out of algorithmic feeds that push divisive content.
The ongoing tech reforms have generated sharp opposition from political opponents. Shadow Communications Minister Sarah Henderson criticized the government’s trajectory, stating that Australians judge officials by actions rather than magazine lists while reiterating claims that the social media ban has failed.
Other Australian Figures on the Time100 Next List
Wells was joined on the 2026 rising stars list by fellow Australians, including musician Troye Sivan, who was featured in the advocates section with a testimonial written by Kylie Minogue. Actress Yerin Ha also appeared on the list under the phenoms section, supported by a testimonial from Nicola Coughlan following her work on Bridgerton.