Australia bans social media for under-16s in world-first move
Australia has become the first country to ban under-16s from using social media, in a landmark effort to “take back control” from tech giants.
Popular platforms including Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, X, TikTok, Snapchat, Reddit, Twitch, and Threads face fines of up to Aus$49.5 million (US$33 million) if they fail to block Australian users under 16.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the move addresses “one of the biggest social and cultural changes” in the country, aiming to protect children from harmful content, bullying, and “predatory algorithms.”
Hundreds of thousands of adolescents woke up Wednesday to find themselves locked out of apps they used daily.
The ban has been welcomed by parents and child welfare advocates, citing concerns over mental health and addiction. However, social media companies, including Meta and X, warned the law could push teenagers to less-regulated platforms, while some young users are already turning to alternative apps.
Australia’s internet safety regulator will enforce the law, but authorities acknowledge savvy teenagers may find ways around the restrictions.
New Zealand and Malaysia are reportedly considering similar measures.
