Sydney: Australia is set to implement a world-first ban on social media for children under 16, effective from December 10, as part of the Social Media Minimum Age Act. The legislation targets major platforms including TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Snapchat, YouTube, Reddit, and Twitch, requiring companies to enforce age restrictions through “reasonable steps” like age verification.
Tech giants are scrambling to comply. Google announced that YouTube users under 16 will be automatically signed out, losing access to subscriptions, comments, and personalized features, while emphasizing the removal of parental controls as a consequence. No penalties apply to minors or parents who circumvent the ban; enforcement falls solely on platforms.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese hailed the move as a vital step to safeguard young Australians from online harms like bullying and misinformation. However, critics argue it could drive teens to unregulated spaces or hinder digital literacy. The eSafety Commissioner has released FAQs to guide families, amid concerns over privacy in age checks.
With an estimated 2-3 million affected users, the ban has sparked international interest, potentially influencing policies in the EU and US. Trials for age verification tech begin next year, but immediate impacts on youth mental health remain under scrutiny.