Australia will enforce a nationwide social media age ban from December 10, extending restrictions to Reddit and Kick. The two platforms now join Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, Threads, TikTok, X, and YouTube under a new legal order that forbids users under 16 from holding accounts.
Communications Minister Anika Wells announced the move on Wednesday, confirming that the government expects full compliance from all listed companies. Platforms that fail to block underage users face penalties of up to 50 million Australian dollars (€28.3 million).
“We’ve met with several social media platforms to ensure they understand there’s no excuse for non-compliance,” Wells said. “These companies use technology to target children with chilling precision. We’re simply demanding they use that same technology to protect them.”
Strict Enforcement and Ongoing Review
Australia’s eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant, who will oversee enforcement, said the list of restricted platforms will evolve as new technologies emerge. The government classifies the nine affected platforms as those whose “sole or significant purpose” is to enable online social interaction.
Inman Grant confirmed she will collaborate with researchers to measure the ban’s effects. “We’ll study whether children sleep more, interact differently, or become more physically active,” she said. “We’ll also track any unintended consequences and gather evidence so others can learn from our progress.”
Officials say this approach represents a global first in digital child protection, designed to balance safety with technological responsibility.
Global Reactions and Ongoing Debate
World leaders and international observers are closely following Australia’s strategy. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen praised the move at a United Nations forum in September, calling it an “inspiring and common-sense” approach. Denmark’s Ambassador to Australia Ingrid Dahl-Madsen also expressed interest, noting that her government “will be looking at what Australia does.”
However, critics argue the ban could erode privacy for all users, as platforms may require stronger age verification systems. Wells reassured the public that the government aims to protect personal data while enforcing the new rules.
More than 140 Australian and international academics signed an open letter to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, warning that an age limit alone is “too blunt an instrument” to address online risks effectively. Despite criticism, the government insists the legislation will create a safer digital environment for young Australians while setting a model for global tech regulation.
