Australia has become the first country to ban children under 16 from using major social media platforms, including TikTok, X, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Snapchat, and Threads. New accounts cannot be created, and existing profiles are being deactivated. The move is being closely watched worldwide.
Why the Ban Was Introduced
The government says the ban will help protect children from harmful content and addictive platform features. A 2025 study revealed that 96% of kids aged 10–15 use social media, with seven in ten exposed to content promoting violence, misogyny, eating disorders, or self-harm. Around 15% experienced grooming attempts, and over half reported cyberbullying.
Which Platforms Are Affected
The ban currently covers ten platforms: Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, Threads, TikTok, X, YouTube, Reddit, Kick, and Twitch. Services like YouTube Kids, Google Classroom, and WhatsApp are exempt. Critics want the ban extended to online games like Roblox and Discord.
How the Ban Will Be Enforced
Children and parents will not face penalties. Platforms must verify users’ ages through methods such as government IDs, facial recognition, voice checks, or analyzing online behavior. Self-certification or parental confirmation is not enough. Meta and Snapchat have already implemented verification systems using IDs or selfies.
Challenges and Concerns
Experts warn that age verification could mistakenly block adults while missing underage users. Some teens are already bypassing the rules by creating fake accounts, sharing joint accounts with parents, or using VPNs. Communications Minister Annika Wells admitted the rollout may be “untidy.”
Data Protection
There are concerns about storing large amounts of personal data for verification. The government assures that data will only be used for age checks and destroyed afterward, with strict penalties for misuse.
Global Context
Other countries are watching Australia’s move. Denmark plans a ban for under-15s, Norway and France are considering similar measures, and Spain will require parental consent for under-16s. In the UK, companies face fines or executive jail time for failing to protect minors.
