Starting December 10, 2025, Australia will implement a world-first policy banning children under 16 from creating accounts on major social media platforms including YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, and Snapchat.
The move follows growing concerns about mental health, cyberbullying, and exposure to harmful content among young people. Platforms will be required to take “reasonable steps” to verify users’ ages, facing fines of up to $50 million for failing to comply.
While new age-verification technologies from document checks to facial recognition are being trialled, experts caution they’re not foolproof and may misidentify users.
Supporters say the ban is a vital step in protecting children online, while critics warn it could drive teens to unregulated spaces or cut off access to online support networks.
Whether it becomes a protective shield or a digital blindfold, the policy’s success will depend not only on technology, but on how well we prepare young Australians to navigate the online world safely and wisely.
More information on the Social media 'ban' or delay FAQ | eSafety Commissioner website
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