Australia bans Instagram and YouTube for users under 16

CANBERRA: In a major step aimed at ensuring a healthier digital environment for young people, Australia on Tuesday announced a ban on social media platforms, including Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, for children under the age of 16. The restriction will take effect from tomorrow (December 10), according to government sources.

Officials said that at least one million users under the age of 16 have been flagged, and their accounts will be subject to mandatory suspension starting Wednesday.

While this move is unprecedented in the country, social scientists have largely supported the decision, suggesting it could send a strong global message about limiting children’s access to social media. They argue that excessive usage is shaping young lives in harmful directions worldwide.

Beginning at midnight (1300 GMT), ten of the largest social platforms will be required to block access for Australians under 16 or face penalties of up to A$49.5 million.
The new law has drawn criticism from major tech companies and free speech advocates but has earned widespread praise from parents and child welfare groups.

The implementation follows a year of debate over whether governments can effectively restrict children’s access to technology as concerns about digital well-being intensify. The move gained urgency after revelations that Meta knowingly contributed to body-image issues and suicidal thoughts among teenagers while publicly denying any connection. In response, countries from Denmark to Malaysia, as well as several US states, are considering similar regulations.

“While Australia is the first to adopt such restrictions, it is unlikely to be the last,” said Tama Leaver, a professor of internet studies at Curtin University.

Australia’s eSafety Commissioner has enlisted Stanford University along with 11 academics to study thousands of young Australians affected by the ban over at least two years, closely monitoring its impact.