Anika Wells Named to TIME100 Next for Under-16 Social Media Ban
Communications and Sport Minister Anika Wells has been named to the TIME100 Next 2026 list.
Time put her in the Leaders section and published a profile titled Anika Wells: TIME100 Next 2026. The list was published on 1 October 2026. Time PSNews
The Guardian describes the list as Time's pick of leaders shaping the future, billed as the world's most influential rising stars. The Guardian Wells was recognised for Australia's under-16 social media ban and for taking on big tech companies. Former prime minister Julia Gillard wrote the testimonial for her inclusion.
On policy, Wells is working on a digital duty of care framework as part of broader online safety reforms. Think of it like a safety duty for platforms, similar to workplace safety laws. The ABC's federal politics coverage notes she is now targeting Big Tech's algorithms, the systems that choose what appears in feeds. ABC
Wells is not the only Australian on the list. Musician Troye Sivan was also included, with a testimonial by Kylie Minogue. Other names include musicians Sombr and PinkPantheress, soccer player Folarin Balogun, US Senator Andy Kim, Dutch prime minister Rob Jetten and Donald Trump's political adviser James Blair. Former Federal Trade Commission chair Andrew Ferguson was also named. Time Time named singer Raye, comedian Druski and actor Ashley Padilla as the three cover subjects for the 2026 TIME100 Next. Time
Looking at what this means for portfolio watchers, the citation is specific. It rewards carriage, not announcement. The under-16 ban is legislated. The duty of care is not. That difference will shape every interview Wells gives from here.
The broader context here is leverage. International recognition gives a communications minister extra weight with platforms, the press gallery and colleagues. It also narrows room to move. Canberra will notice the focus on algorithms and duty of care. Industry will read it as intent. The crossbench will read it as a timetable. A minister praised overseas for taking on big tech cannot afford to look timid at home when the framework lands.
