Australia begins enforcing a world-first social media ban for under-16s, requiring platforms to remove young users or face heavy fines.
Australia has introduced a landmark ban preventing anyone under 16 from using major social media platforms, saying it is time to “take back control” from powerful tech companies.
The new law, which took effect at midnight, forces platforms including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, Snapchat, Reddit, X, and Threads to delete all Australia-based accounts belonging to users under 16. Companies that fail to comply face fines of up to US$33 million.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the move was necessary to protect children from harmful content driven by “predatory algorithms”.
Parents and safety advocates have welcomed the decision, saying excessive exposure to bullying, harmful body-image content, and violent material has left many young people vulnerable.
But tech companies including Meta warn the ban could drive teenagers to more dangerous, unregulated online spaces.
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The government admits the rollout will not be perfect and expects some young users to find ways around the system. Platforms are required to verify ages using government IDs or AI-based age-estimation tools.
New Zealand and Malaysia are considering similar measures. Australia says other apps such as Roblox, WhatsApp, and Pinterest remain exempt for now, but the list may change.
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