Australia Enforces Strict Social Media Age Ban, Blocking Under-16s from Major Platforms
SYDNEY, Australia — Starting December 10, 2025, Australia has begun enforcing a landmark social media law that prohibits anyone under the age of 16 from maintaining accounts on major platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and X (formerly Twitter). This move, regarded as one of the strictest social media age restrictions globally, aims to protect young Australians from the pressures and risks associated with online engagement.
The Online Safety Amendment (Social Media Minimum Age) Act, passed by the Australian Parliament in November 2024, mandates that social media companies take “reasonable steps” to prevent children under 16 from accessing their services. These steps include implementing robust age-assurance technologies, removing existing underage accounts, and blocking attempts to re-register using tools like VPN detection. The law also requires platforms to provide clear pathways for account review and support resources to help young users who are affected by account deactivation.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese emphasized the importance of the legislation in a video statement played in classrooms nationwide. “From December 10, if you’re under 16, you’re no longer allowed to have a social media account,” Albanese said. “You’ll know better than anyone what it’s like growing up with algorithms, endless feeds and the pressure that can come with that.”
The government’s independent regulator, the Office of the eSafety Commissioner, will oversee enforcement. The commissioner’s guidance stresses that platforms must communicate clearly with underage users about account removal, including how to download their data and access support if they experience distress. Failure to comply with the law could result in penalties of up to 49.5 million Australian dollars (approximately $32 million).
This legislation reflects growing global concerns about the impact of social media on children’s mental health and wellbeing. Studies have linked early exposure to social media with increased risks of anxiety, depression, and cyberbullying. Australia’s approach contrasts with many other countries where the minimum age for social media use is typically set at 13, aligning with the U.S. Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) standards.
The platforms affected by the ban include Facebook, Instagram, Kick, Reddit, Snapchat, Threads, TikTok, Twitch, X, and YouTube. Meta, which owns Facebook and Instagram, has previously announced efforts to enhance teen safety by expanding account protections and parental controls.
Experts like neuroscientist Jared Cooney Horvath have voiced support for Australia’s move, highlighting the challenges children face navigating digital environments. Horvath, author of “The Digital Divide,” noted on Fox News that social media is “not a kids tool” and praised the government’s proactive stance.
For more information on Australia’s online safety regulations, visit the Office of the eSafety Commissioner. The U.S. government’s Federal Trade Commission also provides resources on children’s online privacy. Additionally, the World Health Organization has published research on the mental health effects of social media use among youth.
As Australia enforces this pioneering law, it sets a precedent for other nations grappling with the balance between digital innovation and protecting vulnerable young users online.
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