Australia has become the first country to ban social media for children under 16, starting Wednesday, December 10, 2025. The law blocks access to platforms like TikTok, Alphabet’s YouTube, and Meta’s Instagram and Facebook.
Australia bans 10 social media platforms for underage teens
Ten major platforms must prevent children from accessing their sites starting at midnight, or they could face fines of up to A$49.5 million, or $33 million, under this new law. While it has faced criticism from big tech companies and free speech advocates, many parents and child advocates have welcomed it.
PM Anthony Albanese called it “a proud day” for families. He emphasized that the law shows policymakers can address online dangers that have outpaced existing protections. “This is the day when Australian families are taking back power from these big tech companies,” Mr. Albanese told ABC News.
‘Not our choice’: X says it will comply
Elon Musk’s X was the last of the ten major platforms to take steps to restrict access for underage teens after announcing on Wednesday that it would comply with the law. “It’s not our choice – it’s what the Australian law requires,” X said on its website. “X offboards anyone who does not meet our age requirements.”
Australia has indicated that the initial list of covered platforms will change as new products emerge and younger users shift over. Companies have informed Canberra that they will use a mix of age inference, estimating a user’s age based on their behavior and selfie-based age estimation. Checks may also include uploaded identification documents or linked bank account details.
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