Australia introduces world’s first social media ban for teens under 16

Australia has become the first country in the world to impose a sweeping ban on social media use by minors under 16, with the law officially coming into effect on 10 December 2025.

Under the new legislation, the Online Safety Amendment (Social Media Minimum Age) Act 2024, major platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, Snapchat, X (formerly Twitter), Reddit, Twitch, Kick, and Threads must deactivate all existing accounts belonging to users under 16 and block new ones from being created.

Tech companies found violating the rule face fines up to AUD 49.5 million (roughly USD 33 million).

The law delegates enforcement to the companies themselves. They must take reasonable steps to verify users’ ages, such as age estimation, optional ID checks, or other verification methods, though the law does not require submission of government-issued ID.

Supporters say the ban is meant to protect young people from the harms of social media, including excessive screen time, cyberbullying, grooming, misinformation, and mental health risks. Meanwhile, critics warn the law could limit free expression, isolate vulnerable youths, especially those relying on online communities, and drive teens to underground or less-regulated platforms.

Some implementation challenges have already emerged. Reports indicate that some under-16 users slipped through facial age verification checks or tried to circumvent restrictions with VPNs.

Despite imperfections, the government and child safety advocates view the law as a historic step toward protecting children online and say other nations are watching closely.