Australia’s social media ban takes effect next month

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In a world-first move, Australia will ban anyone under 16 from creating accounts on major social media platforms starting December 10, 2025.

The new Online Safety Amendment (Social Media Minimum Age) Bill 2024 makes it illegal for platforms to allow children under 16 to sign up — even with parental consent.

Platforms included in the ban are:

Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, X (Twitter), YouTube, Threads, Reddit, and Kick.

Children will still be able to view content on some sites like YouTube and Reddit, but cannot post or comment without an account.

Excluded from the ban are apps like Messenger, WhatsApp, Discord, Twitch, Roblox, Steam, Google Classroom, GitHub, LEGO Play, and YouTube Kids.

The government says the move aims to protect young Australians from online harm, not punish them. “These laws will make a meaningful difference,” said Communications Minister Anika Wells.

Platforms must take “reasonable steps” to remove or deactivate underage accounts and prove their compliance to the eSafety Commissioner, or face fines of up to $49.5 million.

Authorities have instructed companies to inform users before December 10 using clear and empathetic language and outline an appeals process for those affected.

Children or parents won’t face penalties — the focus remains on holding platforms accountable for enforcing the rules.

Australia’s new laws mark a major shift in online safety, setting a global precedent for regulating how young people use social media.

Credit : 9News

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