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3w ago

Australia’s Under-16 Social Media Ban Takes Effect Nationwide

Companies now face penalties up to A$49.5 million unless they keep under-16s off their platforms.

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Hugo Winwood-Smith, right, Hardy Macpherson and Edan Abou, left, all 11-years-old, use their phones while sitting outside a school in Sydney, Monday, Dec. 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Rick Rycroft)

Overview

  • More than a million under-16 accounts are being locked or removed as the restrictions come into force.
  • The rules cover Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, YouTube, Facebook, X, Reddit, Twitch, Kick and Threads, while services such as WhatsApp and Roblox remain outside the scope for now.
  • Platforms must take “reasonable steps” to deactivate existing under-16 accounts and block new sign-ups or risk fines up to A$49.5 million, with officials cautioning that removals will roll out gradually.
  • Companies are deploying age checks including selfie-based age estimation, government ID and bank-linked verification, drawing privacy and accuracy concerns.
  • A High Court challenge by two 15-year-olds is in motion as firms voice objections—YouTube called the law “rushed,” Reddit says it will comply despite disagreement—and polling shows broad adult support.