Australia Officially Bans Social Media Use For Under-16s
Australia has officially enforced a ban on children under 16 using social media, with the law taking effect today, December 10. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese hailed the legislation as a “world-leading social media law” designed to protect children and give parents more control over their online activity. The Online Safety Amendment (Social Media Minimum Age) Bill 2024, passed last November, now restricts access to major platforms including Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, X, Snapchat, YouTube, Reddit, and Kick. Under the new rules, social media companies are required to take reasonable measures to prevent underage users from creating accounts. Previously, most platforms allowed users aged 13 and above, but enforcement had been weak, with many children under the minimum age still active online. Albanese said the law is aimed at allowing children to “be kids” while encouraging stronger conversations between parents and their children about online safety. Experts have long warned that excessive social media use can affect young users’ mental health, though it also offers access to information and support networks. Australia’s move follows similar proposals in Denmark and Norway, which are looking to restrict social media access for children under 15.