Social Media Ban in Australia: Children Under 16 Blocked From Major Platforms

In a groundbreaking global move, Australia has officially enforced a complete ban on social media access for children below 16 years of age starting today, December 10, 2025. The new law mandates popular platforms to actively block underage users and upgrade age-verification systems, marking one of the world’s strongest regulatory actions aimed at online child safety.

Australia Implements a First-of-Its-Kind Social Media Ban

Major Platforms Required to Comply

Under the updated legislation, some of the world’s biggest social platforms are compelled to restrict access for minors. Services covered by the ban include:

• TikTok

• YouTube

• Meta’s Instagram

• Facebook

• Threads

• X (formerly Twitter)

• Snapchat

• Kik

• Twitch

• Reddit

Authorities say the goal is to protect children from harmful online experiences, cyberbullying, and inappropriate content.

Government’s Stand on the Ban

The Australian government clarified that the restriction was designed to safeguard young users. Major platforms like Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok have formally agreed to the new requirements.
Additionally, Elon Musk’s X has also confirmed it “will comply with the new Australian law.”

Platforms Not Covered Under the Ban

Services Exempt From the New Rules

Certain platforms remain accessible to children, as they are either educational, communication-focused, or considered safer for younger audiences. These exempt platforms include:

• Discord

• Google Classroom

• Messenger

• GitHub

• WhatsApp

• Lego Play

• Steam

• Roblox

• YouTube Kids

However, authorities have indicated that the list is still evolving. Australia’s e-safety officials noted that “some platforms are still under consideration”, signalling the possibility of future revisions based on risk assessments.

How Australia Plans to Enforce the Age Restrictions

Digital Verification and Monitoring Measures

To effectively implement the ban, platforms must adopt several new verification and monitoring systems, including:

• Checking account age information

• Using AI tools to estimate age through profile photos

• Analysing behavioural and content interaction patterns

• Detecting underage user activity through flagged signals

These steps form part of a broader national strategy to modernise digital safety measures.

Public and Expert Reactions to the Landmark Legislation

Government Leaders Welcome the Move

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese hailed the new law, emphasising Australia’s pioneering role in global online safety. He stated:
“This is a proud day,” adding that the nation has enforced “the first global ban on social media accounts for people under the age of 16.”

Teenagers Share Mixed Feelings

Australian teenagers have responded in varied ways. Some expressed feeling “humiliated” by the ban, while others said they expect to adjust relatively quickly.

Experts Warn of Unintended Consequences

Digital safety experts and critics have raised concerns that the move, while well-intentioned, could:

• Lead to increased isolation among vulnerable teens

• Drive children toward VPNs or unregulated online spaces

• Reduce opportunities for digital literacy and safe online behaviour learning

Penalties for Platforms Violating the Ban

Heavy Fines Target Tech Companies

The government has made it clear that parents and children will face no penalties for breaching the rules. Instead, the responsibility lies entirely on the social media companies.

If platforms fail to comply, they could be hit with an enormous fine of 49.5 million Australian dollars (equivalent to US $32 million or £25 million). This penalty underscores the government’s strict approach and commitment to child safety.