Australia has become the first country to enforce a nationwide ban on social media use by children under 16, with major platforms ordered to block access from Wednesday.
Social Media
The law, which came into effect at midnight, requires Facebook, Instagram, Threads, X, YouTube, Snapchat, Reddit, Kick, Twitch and TikTok to remove accounts held by users under 16 and prevent new registrations.
Ten of the largest platforms face fines of up to A$49.5 million (US$33 million) for non-compliance.
The measure has drawn criticism from technology companies and free speech advocates but has been welcomed by parents and child protection groups.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, in a video message to schools, said the ban was designed to support young Australians and reduce pressures associated with social media feeds and algorithms.
“Make the most of the school holidays coming up. Rather than spending it scrolling on your phone, start a new sport, learn a new instrument, or read that book that has been sitting there for some time on your shelf. And importantly, spend quality time with your friends and your family, face to face,” Albanese said.
The rollout ends months of speculation about whether a government could successfully block children from using platforms embedded in modern life.
Authorities clarified that parents and children would not be punished for breaches, but companies would be sanctioned for violations.
The government said the ban was aimed at protecting young people from harmful content, while critics warned it could isolate vulnerable teenagers and drive them toward unregulated online spaces.
The policy is being closely monitored by other countries considering similar age-based restrictions amid growing concerns about the impact of social media on children’s health and safety.
