A sweeping new law in Australia has forced major social media platforms to remove millions of accounts belonging to users under 16. The rule, which came into effect this week, affects nearly every major platform — including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, Snapchat, Reddit, X, Threads, Twitch and Kick.
Under the new regulation, companies must delete existing underage accounts and block new users under 16 from signing up. Any platform that fails to comply could face massive penalties of up to A$49.5 million.
Why Australia Banned Kids Under 16 From Social Media
The government says the policy aims to protect minors from harmful online content, cyberbullying, predatory behaviour, and mental-health risks. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese acknowledged that the rollout may not be flawless, but said the national message is clear: safeguarding children online must be a priority.
He compared the law to Australia’s drinking-age rule — noting that while some breaches may occur, it still sets an important standard for society.
Families React With Confusion, Frustration and Relief
Reactions across the country are sharply divided.
Many teenagers spent the weekend verifying their ages, sharing phone numbers or preparing to lose their accounts. Some young users told local media they feel anxious about losing social connections that rely heavily on platforms like Snapchat.
A parent shared that his 15-year-old daughter is devastated because “all her friends have been age-verified as 18… she fears they will continue talking on Snapchat without her.”
Another parent admitted he has already taught his teen how to bypass restrictions using VPNs and alternate accounts. “I’ve helped her create an adult YouTube account… and I’ll keep helping her whenever age checks appear,” he said.
Not all families oppose the changes. Some see the ban as a welcome tool. One parent said it “gives us boundaries to keep her off these platforms,” noting the constant pressure to allow social media access before the change.
How the Government Plans to Enforce Compliance
eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant confirmed she will require platforms to report:
- How many under-16 accounts they have removed
- What technical or operational issues they face
- What enforcement steps they are taking
The government will also launch an independent review to measure real-world impacts — both positive and unintended — over time.
