These platforms are now required to enforce strict age-verification measures, with substantial fines imposed on those that do not comply. Meta has already begun the process of deleting accounts belonging to users under 16.
As reported by eSafety, the Australian government’s online safety agency, over 96% of teenagers using social media in Australia are under 16, including around 440,000 aged 13 to 15 on Snapchat, 350,000 on Instagram, and 150,000 on Facebook.
While messaging applications and educational or gaming platforms are exempt, traditional social media services must ensure that users under 16 are unable to create or maintain accounts.
Which apps are banned?
The law affects popular social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, Threads, TikTok, YouTube, X, Snapchat, Reddit, Kick, and Twitch.
Which apps are allowed?
Exempt from the ban are platforms like Discord, Messenger, Roblox, WhatsApp, YouTube Kids, and Pinterest.
Professor Tama Leaver from Curtin University mentioned that while Australia may be the first to enforce this regulation, it is unlikely to be the last, with Denmark, Malaysia, and some states in the US considering similar measures.
“Despite being the first to impose such restrictions, Australia is not expected to be alone,” he stated, adding, “Governments globally are observing how the influence of Big Tech was effectively challenged. The social media ban in Australia… serves as a warning signal.”
Why Australia banned social media for teenagers
Australian officials indicate that social media can pose various risks to teenagers. They highlight issues such as online bullying, which can heighten anxiety and peer pressure among young people. Additionally, there are concerns that predators may use social media to target minors.
Moreover, authorities have pointed out that excessive time spent on social media may exacerbate mental health challenges in teens, including depression, anxiety, and other psychological issues.
The ban stems from the Online Safety Amendment (Social Media Minimum Age) Bill 2024, which the Australian Parliament approved a year ago. Since then, various social media companies have publicly expressed their opposition to the new legislation.
Paul Taske, representing NetChoice, an organization advocating for major tech firms, claimed that Australia’s method resembles ‘blanket censorship’ that could render teens less informed, isolated, and unprepared for the world.
