YouTube Lobbies Against Inclusion in Australia’s Under-16 Social Media Ban

YouTube Lobbies Against Inclusion in Australia’s Under-16 Social Media Ban
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YouTube is making a final effort to persuade the Australian government not to include its platform in the upcoming under-16 social media ban, arguing that it is a video-sharing service rather than a social media platform, The Guardian reported. Google, YouTube’s parent company, is hosting a major event this week at Parliament House featuring popular Australian YouTubers to bolster its position.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has expressed concerns about harmful content on YouTube and indicated the platform may be included in the ban, dismissing Google’s legal threats against the government. Albanese emphasized the government’s commitment to protecting young people’s mental health, citing evidence of exposure to harmful content on social media.

Communications Minister Anika Wells is expected to announce the final list of platforms covered by the ban soon. Although YouTube was initially exempted in the regulations passed in December 2024, the eSafety Commissioner recently recommended including it. This has sparked controversy, with Google and some content creators opposing the change, while other social media companies like Meta, TikTok, and Snapchat support including YouTube in the ban.

Google has formally warned the government it may pursue legal action if YouTube is included, citing concerns over constitutional freedoms. YouTube maintains it provides valuable, age-appropriate content for younger Australians and urges the government to respect the legislative process.

The debate continues as Australia prepares to implement one of the world’s strictest social media restrictions for children under 16, aiming to reduce exposure to harmful online content.