Australia starts social media ban for children under 16

Staff Report | PNN

One week before Australia’s world-first social media ban for teenagers takes effect, Meta has already begun removing users under 16 from Instagram, Facebook, and Threads.

Last month, the company announced that accounts of users aged 13–15 identified would be gradually closed starting December 4. Approximately 150,000 Facebook users and 350,000 Instagram accounts are expected to be affected. Since Threads relies on Instagram accounts, it will also be automatically included.

Australia’s new law will take effect on December 10. It stipulates that social media companies failing to block accounts of users under 16 could face fines of up to AUD 49.5 million.

A Meta spokesperson told the BBC that a multi-layered process will be followed to comply with the new law. However, the company believes age verification should also be enforced at the app store level, reducing the need for separate verification on each platform.

Meta said affected teens will have the opportunity to download their photos, videos, and messages before their accounts are closed. Those incorrectly identified as under 16 can appeal with a video selfie and submit identity documents.

The ban applies to Meta platforms as well as YouTube, X, TikTok, Snapchat, Reddit, Kik, and Twitch. The Australian government says the main goal is to protect children’s mental health. Critics argue it may isolate many teens from social interaction and push them toward less-regulated platforms.

Australia’s Communications Minister Annika Wells said initial challenges aside, the law will protect future generations from algorithmic addiction. She noted that children are “trapped in dopamine addiction” from the moment they get a smartphone.

Meanwhile, the government is monitoring lesser-known apps like Lemon8 and Yope for potential risks. Yope authorities stated that as a fully private messaging app, it is not covered by the ban. YouTube called the law a “hasty decision,” claiming that banning accounts undermines parental control and makes the platform less safe.

A government study found that 96% of children aged 10–15 use social media, with most reporting exposure to harmful content, online grooming, cyberbullying, and violent content.