Australia is set to roll out a groundbreaking ban on social media use for children under 16, marking the first policy of its kind globally. The measure, which takes effect this week, will apply across major platforms including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, YouTube, Reddit, X, Twitch, Kick and Threads.
The government says the ban is designed to curb the rising mental-health risks, online harms and addictive design features impacting young users. Enforcement will rely on strengthened age-verification systems and platform accountability measures, with penalties expected for companies that fail to comply.
Lawmakers argue the move is necessary as online exposure continues to escalate among minors, while critics warn the policy may spark debates on privacy, digital rights and parental autonomy.
Australia’s decision positions it at the forefront of global regulatory action on youth online safety, potentially setting a precedent for other countries watching the rollout closely.
Australia’s teens launch court challenge to social media ban
