Social Media Ban for Under-16s in Australia – A Global Perspective

Australia has successfully removed over 4.7 million social media accounts associated with children and adolescents as part of the first month of a groundbreaking ban on under-16s using major social platforms. This situation highlights the extent of a regulatory initiative being closely monitored by governments across the globe.

The information, revealed by Australia’s eSafety Commissioner, follows the enforcement of a law that commenced on December 10, 2025, preventing individuals younger than 16 from accessing social media platforms. This makes Australia the inaugural country to impose a comprehensive age-based restriction on apps such as Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, Snapchat, YouTube, and X.

Immediate Impact of the New Legislation

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese remarked that the statistics illustrate the swift effects of the new regulations, noting that the accounts deactivated far surpassed initial government projections.

Meta Platforms Inc., the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, acknowledged that approximately 550,000 accounts belonging to users under 16 had been removed. Other prominent platforms have engaged in significant account deactivations, though details from most have not been publicly shared.

Consequences for Non-Compliance

The legislation stipulates that technology firms failing to uphold these age restrictions may incur fines reaching A$49.5 million (approximately Rs 300 crore).

eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant stated that the enforcement campaign has already altered online behaviour among teenagers, despite some minors still finding workarounds. She compared the legislation’s deterrent effect to age restrictions on alcohol.

Exemptions and Legal Challenges

While messaging-only services and educational platforms are exempt from this ban, it has instigated a legal challenge from Reddit Inc., which has initiated a lawsuit aimed at reversing the restrictions.

A Model for the World?

Australia’s initiative is rapidly emerging as a reference for lawmakers facing increasing worries about the effects of social media on minors’ mental health, online safety, and digital dependency.

In India, the Madras High Court has urged the Union government to consider implementing a similar prohibition for users under 16, referencing Australia’s law as a potential example. The court has also called for child rights organizations to enhance awareness campaigns regarding safe internet practices for children and their guardians.

These observations arose during discussions on a petition advocating for a mandatory “parental window” feature from internet service providers to restrict access to inappropriate content.

While India has yet to announce a definitive plan for a complete ban, the topic is gaining traction due to rising political and judicial examination of social media platforms and their effects on young users.

In addition to Australia, governments in France and Malaysia are exploring age-restriction policies inspired by this innovative approach.