Australia expands its under-16 social media ban, adding two more platforms to the list of restricted platforms ahead of December 2025 enforcement.
Australia is set to implement a world-first legal ban preventing children under the age of 16 from holding accounts on some of the world’s most popular social media platforms, with Reddit and livestreaming service Kick being the latest additions to the list.
The two platforms join seven others, Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, Threads, TikTok, X, and YouTube, in facing a mandatory legal obligation to actively shut down the accounts of younger Australian children. Though Snap, TikTok, and Meta have opposed the decision, they have still decided to obey it.
The new rules are scheduled to take effect from December 10. The move is part of the government’s push to enhance online safety, with Communications Minister Anika Wells stating that platforms must utilize the same technology they use to "target children with chilling control" to instead "keep children safe online."
Platforms that fail to take ‘reasonable steps’ to exclude users under 16 face substantial financial consequences, with penalties reaching up to A$50 million (approximately $33 million USD).
Australia’s eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant will enforce the landmark legislation, which is being closely monitored by governments worldwide concerned about the impact of social media on young children. The list of age-restricted platforms is expected to evolve as new technologies emerge.
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