Australia launches world-first social media ban for under-16s
Australia is implementing a social media ban for children under 16, effective this week. This policy affects major platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, YouTube, Reddit, X (Twitter), Twitch, Kick, and Threads.
Australia is implementing a social media ban for children under 16, effective this week. This policy affects major platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, YouTube, Reddit, X (Twitter), Twitch, Kick, and Threads.
The government aims to protect young users from online risks by mandating these platforms to deactivate accounts for under-16s and prevent new sign-ups until users reach 16. The eSafety Commissioner will oversee compliance, and platforms that do not take "reasonable steps" could incur fines up to AUD 49.5 million.
Starting Wednesday, 10 December 2023, platforms must ensure that under-16 users cannot hold accounts. All Australian users will be required to verify their age, though the process will vary by platform. Snapchat will rely on account behavior and user-provided birthdates, while TikTok will use a "multi-layered approach" combining technology and human moderation. Kick will employ similar systems to Snapchat, while Meta and YouTube have not disclosed their complete methods due to security concerns.
Teens affected by the ban will have options to download their content, temporarily deactivate their accounts until they turn 16, or delete their accounts entirely. Snapchat estimates the ban will impact around 440,000 users aged 13 to 15. YouTube has confirmed users will be able to regain access at 16 without losing content, while other platforms are still finalizing their policies.
Australia is implementing a social media ban for children under 16, effective this week.
Users over 16 mistakenly flagged as underage can appeal through various methods. Meta users can verify their age with a video selfie or government ID via Yoti, Snapchat allows ID or bank card verification, and TikTok offers options including facial age estimation and government ID. Some platforms have not yet clarified their appeals process.
Some platforms are exempt from the ban, including Roblox, YouTube Kids, Pinterest, WhatsApp, Discord, GitHub, LEGO Play, Steam, Google Classroom, Messenger, and LinkedIn, due to their nature or smaller Australian user base.
The ban is facing a high court challenge over freedom of political communication, and a parliamentary committee recommended delaying the rollout until June 2026. However, the government remains committed to the 10 December launch and has indicated that it will take time for all under-16 accounts to be removed, with compliance being phased and monitored.
This initiative is the first of its kind globally, reflecting growing concern over the safety of children online. Australia's approach could set a precedent as governments and tech platforms address the protection of minors in the digital age.
Based on reporting by Africanews.