Meta has begun notifying younger Australian users that their Instagram, Facebook and Threads accounts will soon be shut down as the country prepares to introduce a ban on under-16s using social media.
Messages have been sent by text, email and in-app to users the company believes are aged between 13 and 15. They warn that account deactivations will start on 4 December, ahead of the nationwide ban coming into force on 10 December.
The new rules apply across major platforms, including TikTok, YouTube, X and Reddit.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has described the policy as “world-leading”, saying it is intended to “let kids be kids”. Although Meta and other technology firms opposed the legislation during debate, they have confirmed they will comply.
Australia’s internet regulator estimates there are about 350,000 Instagram and 150,000 Facebook users aged 13 to 15. From 4 December, under-16s will also be prevented from creating new accounts on Meta services.
The company is asking affected teenagers to update their contact details so they can be informed once they are old enough to return. Users will also be able to download their photos, videos and messages before their accounts are removed.
Those who say they are 16 or older can appeal the restrictions by verifying their age through a video selfie or by submitting government-issued identification, such as a driver’s licence. A review by the UK-based Age Check Certification Scheme earlier this year found that although each method had advantages, none was entirely reliable.
Platforms that fail to take “reasonable steps” to block under-16s could face penalties of up to A$50m (£25m). Meta said it is working to remove all underage accounts before the deadline, though it acknowledged that achieving full compliance will require ongoing monitoring.
Microsoft’s AI chief calls superintelligence an “anti-goal,” prioritises human-centred AI
