Australia has introduced a sweeping new rule that bans anyone under the age of 16 from accessing social media, marking what officials describe as a world-first move aimed at protecting young people from harmful online content. The ban took effect just after midnight, instantly locking hundreds of thousands of teenagers out of platforms they once used for hours every day.
The government says the measures are necessary to shield children from “predatory algorithms” that push content involving bullying, sex, violence and other harmful material. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese argued that social media often does more harm than good, describing it as a space that can heighten anxiety, fuel peer pressure, empower scammers and expose minors to online predators.
Under the new rules, major platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, Snapchat and Reddit are prohibited from creating or keeping accounts belonging to Australian users below 16. Messaging and streaming platforms including Threads, X, Kick and Twitch are also included on the blacklist. Companies that fail to block underage users face fines of up to US$33 million.
For many parents, the ban is a long-awaited relief. Some families have blamed social media for serious harm, including the suicide of teenage users who faced online bullying or were fed endless streams of damaging videos. They argue that platforms have too often avoided responsibility for the effects their content has on young people.
Researchers have increasingly highlighted concerns about the amount of time teens spend online, though they say it can be difficult to separate the effects of screen time from other lifestyle factors. Still, some parents and advocates believe the new rules mark an important step in reducing risks linked to addictive digital habits.
Reactions among teenagers have been mixed. Some young users abroad have said the ban raises important questions, while others argue that social media remains a vital outlet for self-expression. Tech companies, meanwhile, have condemned the restrictions. YouTube has called the laws “rushed,” warning that the ban could push teenagers toward even less safe corners of the internet.
Despite promising enforcement, Australian authorities admit the rollout will not be perfect. Companies must verify that users are at least 16, using tools such as AI-based age estimation or requiring young users to submit government identification. Exemptions remain for certain platforms, including Roblox, Pinterest and WhatsApp, though officials say the list may change. Other countries, including New Zealand and Malaysia, are monitoring Australia’s approach as they weigh possible steps of their own.
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