Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
Australia has officially implemented a sweeping social media ban that prohibits children under the age of 16 from holding accounts on major platforms — becoming the first country in the world to enact such a law. As of December 10, 2025, popular services including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, X (formerly Twitter), YouTube, Reddit, Twitch, Threads, and others must block or deactivate any user identified as under 16.
Under the legislation, companies that fail to comply face fines of up to A$49.5 million (roughly US $33 million), a substantial deterrent aiming to ensure rigorous enforcement.
Enforcement is the responsibility of the country’s online‑safety regulator, with platforms required to show they have taken “reasonable steps” to prevent access by minors. Approaches to age verification may include biometric facial analysis, ID‑based checks, or other consent/verification mechanisms.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese hailed the ban as a landmark step to protect children’s mental health, reduce exposure to cyber‑bullying, harmful content and addictive online design, and “reclaim control” from large technology companies.
Many child‑safety advocates have welcomed the move, praising it as a bold and necessary shift in prioritising youth well‑being over digital access. Still, critics warn of enforcement challenges, data‑privacy concerns, and the risk of driving minors to unregulated or underground online communities.
The new law is seen as a potential turning point in global debates about youth safety online — other countries such as Denmark and Malaysia have already signalled interest in similar measures, observing Australia’s experience closely.
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