Australia Bans Children Under 16 from Social Media Platforms
What the New Law Means
Australia has become the first country to ban children under 16 from signing up for popular social‑media platforms. Starting today, minors will be prohibited from creating accounts on ten major platforms, including Twitch, TikTok, Facebook and Instagram.
Key Requirements for Platforms
The legislation requires these services to take “reasonable steps” to prevent under‑16s from accessing their sites. Companies that fail to comply could face fines of up to AU$49.5 million (about $33 million USD).
Platforms Covered
The banned list includes: Facebook, Instagram, Kick, Reddit, Snapchat, TikTok, Threads, Twitch, X (formerly Twitter) and YouTube. Notably absent are Roblox, Discord and Steam, which have faced separate scrutiny over extremist content and child‑exploitation concerns.
Why the Ban Was Introduced
The eSafety Commissioner says social‑media design features encourage prolonged use, negatively impacting children’s health and wellbeing. The ban aims to protect young Australians from excessive screen time, harmful content and the pressures of online life.
Support and Criticism
While many Australians support the move, critics warn it could disproportionately affect children in remote or marginalized communities who rely on social media for information and social connection.
International Reaction
Other nations are watching closely. Malaysia plans a similar ban from 1 January 2026, and Indonesia, New Zealand and Brazil are considering comparable legislation.
Effectiveness and Ongoing Debate
Researchers note that excessive social‑media use among adolescents can lead to cyberbullying and problematic behaviour. The ban’s real‑world impact will be monitored, with regular reviews to adjust the list of platforms as needed.
Government Perspective
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese hailed the legislation as a “significant social and cultural shift,” encouraging young Australians to explore sports, music, reading and other offline activities.
Looking Ahead
As the list of banned platforms undergoes regular review, the law’s impact and any potential adjustments will be closely watched. For now, Australia leads the world in regulating social‑media use among children.
