Australia is set to implement one of the world’s toughest social media laws, banning children under 16 from using platforms such as YouTube, Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat, and X, starting December 10.
Communications Minister Anika Wells on Wednesday highlighted the growing concern about young users being exposed to harmful content. According to her, four in ten Australian children have reported encountering disturbing material on YouTube, despite it being widely used in schools.
“We want kids to know who they are before platforms assume who they are,” Wells stated. “There’s a place for social media, but there’s not a place for predatory algorithms targeting children.”
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese echoed the sentiment, saying, “We want Australian parents and families to know that we have got their back.” He acknowledged that while enforcement might not be perfect, the decision was necessary to protect children.
The new rules will prohibit anyone under 16 from holding accounts on the listed platforms. Companies that violate the law could face fines up to AUD 49.5 million (USD 32 million).
However, the announcement has sparked backlash from tech giants. YouTube, which previously appeared to be exempt, called the decision a “jarring U-turn,” claiming it is a video-sharing platform, not a social media site. Meta and TikTok have both criticized the legislation as vague and burdensome.
Experts have also raised concerns about the enforceability of the ban, warning it may end up as a symbolic move without effective implementation mechanisms.
Despite the controversy, the law has drawn global attention as other nations consider similar moves to safeguard children online.
