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Australia enforces world-first social media age restriction
Meta has blocked over half a million accounts in Australia since a new law took effect, barring users under 16 from accessing platforms like Instagram and Facebook. The measure, the strictest of its kind globally, has drawn international attention and sparked debate over its effectiveness and impact on young people.
Law takes effect amid global scrutiny
In December, Australia implemented legislation requiring social media companies to prevent users under 16 from creating or maintaining accounts. The law, which does not include exemptions for parental consent, aims to shield children from harmful content and algorithmic risks. Policymakers and child safety advocates argue the ban is a necessary step to protect minors online.
Meta reports compliance figures
During the first week of enforcement, Meta blocked 330,639 Instagram accounts, 173,497 Facebook accounts, and 39,916 Threads accounts. The company stated in a blog post that while it supports efforts to enhance online safety for young people, it believes blanket bans are not the solution.
"We call on the Australian government to engage with industry constructively to find a better way forward, such as incentivising all of industry to raise the standard in providing safe, privacy-preserving, age-appropriate experiences online, instead of blanket bans."
Meta
Industry pushes back on approach
Meta reiterated its stance that age verification should occur at the app store level, arguing this would create consistent protections across all platforms and reduce compliance burdens. The company also suggested introducing exemptions for parental approval, warning that teens may migrate to less regulated apps to bypass restrictions.
"This is the only way to guarantee consistent, industry-wide protections for young people, no matter which apps they use, and to avoid the whack-a-mole effect of catching up with new apps that teens will migrate to in order to circumvent the social media ban law," Meta said.
Global reactions and concerns
Australia's policy, which sets the age limit at 16 and excludes parental consent exemptions, is being closely watched by other governments. Florida and the European Union have experimented with similar restrictions, but Australia's approach is considered the most stringent to date. The UK's Conservative Party has pledged to adopt a comparable policy if it wins the next general election, expected before 2029.
Despite its popularity among parents and policymakers, critics argue the ban may be easily circumvented. Experts warn that tech-savvy teens could bypass age verification systems or turn to less secure online spaces. Some mental health advocates and young people have also voiced concerns, stating the restrictions could isolate vulnerable groups, including LGBTQ+, neurodivergent, and rural youth, who rely on social media for connection and support.
Balancing safety and access
The debate highlights the challenges of regulating children's online activity. While the law aims to mitigate risks, opponents argue it may leave young people less prepared to navigate the digital world safely. As other nations consider similar measures, Australia's experience will likely shape future discussions on balancing child protection with digital inclusion.
