Australia Expands Social Media Ban for Under-16s
Australia has added Reddit and livestreaming platform Kick to its expanding list of social media sites that must block users under 16 years old. This extension of a pioneering law will take effect next month, aiming to protect children from potentially harmful online environments.
Platforms Included in the Ban
- TikTok
- X
- Snapchat
- Threads
- YouTube
- Kick
Legal and Enforcement Details
According to Communications Minister Anika Wells, companies face penalties up to AUD 50 million (USD 33 million) if they fail to prevent children under 16 from creating or maintaining accounts.
“We have met with several of the social media platforms in the past month so that they understand there is no excuse for failure to implement this law,” Wells said.
“Online platforms use technology to target children with chilling control. We are merely asking that they use that same technology to keep children safe online.”
The eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant will oversee the enforcement of the law. She emphasized that the list of restricted platforms will adapt as new technologies emerge.
“We’ll also look for unintended consequences and we’ll be gathering evidence so that others could learn from Australia’s achievements,” Grant said, adding ongoing research into the ban’s impact on children's sleep, social behavior, and physical activity.
International Impact
The initiative has attracted global attention as a first-of-its-kind approach to online child safety.
Author's Summary
Australia is leading a global precedent by legally requiring major social media platforms, including Reddit and Kick, to block users under 16, aiming to safeguard children's online well-being and set an international example.