Australia Enforces Landmark Ban on Social Media for Under-16s as Global Interest Grows

Australia Enforces Landmark Ban on Social Media for Under-16s as Global Interest Grows
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Australia has introduced the world’s first nationwide ban preventing users under 16 from accessing major social media platforms, affecting millions of young people across the country, The Guardian reported. From Wednesday, companies including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, Snapchat, Reddit, Twitch, Kick and Threads are required to remove accounts belonging to underage users and block new registrations, or face fines of up to $49.5m for non-compliance.

Authorities acknowledged early challenges in enforcement, with some minors reportedly passing facial age-verification systems. While most platforms confirmed adherence to the new rules, X had yet to outline its compliance plan publicly. Even smaller platforms such as Bluesky have opted to follow the ban despite being assessed as low-risk.

The rollout has prompted mixed reactions from parents. Some expressed concern that their children would be socially isolated if friends found ways to bypass the restrictions. Others admitted to helping their teenagers circumvent age checks through VPNs. Supporters, however, welcomed the policy, arguing it offers a much-needed framework to reduce excessive social media use.

Prime minister Anthony Albanese defended the move, saying the law sets a clear national standard despite acknowledging that enforcement will not be flawless. Public polling indicates that two-thirds of Australians back raising the minimum social media age. The decision has attracted global attention, with several countries — including Malaysia, Denmark and Norway — signalling plans to adopt similar rules. The EU has also passed a resolution exploring comparable restrictions.

Regulators will now monitor compliance closely. eSafety commissioner Julie Inman Grant said platforms would be required to report the number of accounts removed, challenges encountered, and measures to prevent users from returning under false ages. An independent academic review will examine both the benefits and potential unintended consequences, including whether young people migrate to unsafe online spaces or seek out workarounds to evade the ban.