Australia Expands Social Media Ban for Under-16s
Australia is set to enforce a pioneering social media ban for children under 16 starting December 2025. The list of restricted platforms now includes Reddit, alongside previously targeted sites such as Facebook, Snapchat, TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, Threads, X (formerly Twitter), and the live-streaming platform Kick.
Details of the Legislation
From December 10, 2025, technology companies face fines up to A$50 million (approximately $32.5 million USD or £25.7 million) if they fail to take “reasonable steps” to deactivate existing accounts for users under 16 or prevent new underage accounts from being created.
Government Rationale
The Australian government stated that all banned platforms were selected because “their sole purpose is to enable online social interaction.” They also warned that more platforms could be added in response to the rapidly evolving technology landscape.
Official Statements
“Delaying children's access to social media accounts gives them valuable time to learn and grow, free of the powerful, unseen forces of harmful and deceptive design features such as opaque algorithms and endless scroll,” said Australia’s eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant.
Federal Communications Minister Anika Wells commented, “Online platforms can target children with chilling control, and this ban is about protecting children.”
Implications for Tech Companies
- Mandatory account deactivation for under-16 users.
- Prohibition on new accounts for underage children.
- Potential heavy fines for non-compliance.
The Australian government’s move reflects increasing global concern over children's exposure to social media and its potential harms.
Author’s summary
This legislation pioneers child safety by restricting social media access for under-16s, urging platforms to protect youth from manipulative design and online risks.