Australia has become the first country to ban social media access for children under 16, ordering major platforms to block young users under a landmark law aimed at reducing online harm. The restrictions cover TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, and other large platforms.
Under the new rules, 10 major companies were directed to prevent access by minors starting at midnight Wednesday or face penalties of up to A$49.5 million (US$33 million). The law has drawn criticism from technology firms and free speech advocates but has been welcomed by many parents and child protection groups.
According to Reuters, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese called the move “a proud day” for families and said the law shows that governments can act to curb online dangers.
“This will make an enormous difference. It is one of the biggest social and cultural changes that our nation has faced,” Albanese said at a news conference. “It’s a profound reform that will continue to reverberate around the world.”
Albanese encouraged children to spend more time on sports, music, or reading as summer break approaches.
In the hours before the ban began, many young users posted farewell messages. “No more social media… no more contact with the rest of the world,” one teen wrote. Another signed off with, “See you when I’m 16.”
The ban follows a year of debate about whether any nation could realistically prevent teens from accessing platforms that have become central to social life. It now serves as a global test case for governments seeking stronger measures to protect children online.
The government cited research linking heavy social media use among early teens to mental health risks, including exposure to misinformation, bullying, and harmful body image content. Countries including Denmark, New Zealand, and Malaysia have signaled they may study or adopt similar approaches.
Elon Musk’s platform X was the last of the 10 major companies to confirm compliance, saying it would block underage users because the law requires it. “X automatically offboards anyone who does not meet our age requirements,” the company said.
Platforms will use a mix of age inference, selfie-based estimation tools, and optional identity verification methods to detect minors. Officials say the list of regulated platforms will evolve as new products and trends emerge.
While companies say they earn little from users under 16, they warn the ban may disrupt the pipeline of future users. Government data shows 86% of Australians aged 8 to 15 used social media before the ban.
Some teens have expressed concern that the ban could isolate young people who rely on online communities for support.
“It’s going to be worse for queer people and people with niche interests because that’s the only way they can find their community,” said 14-year-old Annie Wang. “Some people also use it to vent or get help. For some it’ll be fine, but for others it could worsen their mental health.”
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