US EditionAustralia's social media ban for children has left big tech scrambling
Australia's new law requires major platforms to block under-16 accounts or face up to A$49.5 million fines, aiming to reduce online harms like cyberbullying and mental health risks.
- On Dec. 10, Australia formally barred under‑16s from major social media platforms, marking a world‑first national ban requiring platforms to take reasonable steps from that date.
- Supporters say the law shields children under 16 from cyberbullying, grooming and addictive algorithms, with the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners backing the change amid rising adolescent mental-health concerns and a YouGov survey showing strong public support last year.
- Platforms must implement age‑assurance methods like facial estimation, IDs, or bank links, and face fines up to A$49.5m for serious breaches from Wednesday.
- The eSafety Commissioner will demand data from all 10 targeted platforms on Dec. 9 and Dec. 11, requiring monthly updates for six months amid warnings enforcement may be challenging.
- Experts say the move will be closely watched by global tech firms and lawmakers as Denmark, Malaysia, New Zealand, and others consider similar bans, while Digital Freedom Project plans a High Court challenge early next year.
179 Articles
179 Articles
Australia is booting kids under 16 off social media. Some senators hope the US is next: 'Our lack of action is inexcusable.'
Australia has barred children under 16 from creating social media accounts.FG Trade Latin/Getty ImagesAustralia's social media ban for children under 16 took effect this week.Australian lawmakers say the ban will help protect young children from harm on social media.A group of US lawmakers introduced a similar bill earlier this year.A law in Australia banning children under 16 from creating social media accounts took effect this week. It was the…
As the world's first country, access to social media for children has been completely blocked in Australia – but they are inventive.
Associated Press News
Australia demands social media giants report progress on account bans for children under 16
Australian authorities are demanding major social media platforms report on account deactivations since a ban on users under 16 became law.
Australia’s world-first social media ban is a ‘natural experiment’ for scientists
Researchers will study the effects of the policy on young people’s mental health, social interactions and political engagement. Researchers will study the effects of the policy on young people’s mental health, social interactions and political engagement.
From now on, young people are excluded from social media. Theoretically, because there are numerous bypasses.
Coverage Details
Bias Distribution
- 44% of the sources are Center
Factuality
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium
