Australia’s first-in-the-world law prohibiting social media use by children under 16 came into force at midnight on December 10, 2025. The sweeping measure requires major platforms — including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, X (formerly Twitter), YouTube, Reddit, Twitch, Threads and Kick — to disable existing accounts for under-16s and block new ones.

Companies face fines of up to A$ 49.5 million for non-compliance.

The law, enacted via the Online Safety Amendment (Social Media Minimum Age) Act 2024, reflects a strong response to mounting concerns over youth mental health, cyberbullying, and online addiction.

The federal government emphasises that this is not merely a regulatory change but a major cultural shift: children will now have more “time to be kids,” and parents greater peace of mind.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described the moment as one of national pride and urged young people to use the upcoming summer break to reconnect with real-life activities: read a book, learn an instrument, play sport or enjoy time with friends and family.

He also encouraged teens or concerned parents to seek support if needed, naming services such as Headspace and Kids Helpline.

The path to the ban was shaped in part by activists and parents — among them mothers who publicly implored lawmakers to “do something” about the rising tide of online harm affecting children.

The government credits that grassroots pressure with creating the political will to deliver the world’s first social-media ban for minors.

Implementation began before the official start date: some platforms started removing underage accounts on December 4. On launch day, concerns emerged over under-16s attempting to circumvent restrictions by using fake birth dates or other workarounds.

The federal eSafety Commissioner has acknowledged these early gaps but pledged that non-compliant accounts will be “booted off in time.”

Supporters argue the legislation is a decisive step to reclaim childhood, counter algorithmic pressure, and protect vulnerable youths — especially those prone to anxiety, depression or low self-esteem.

Critics — including some child-welfare groups — caution that social media can also serve important roles in education, mental-health outreach and peer support.

Even so, the government remains resolute: the law reflects a choice to prioritise the well-being of children over the reach of tech giants, and other countries are already watching closely.

As Australia embarks on what may become a global model for youth online safety, early signs suggest families are bracing for both the practical challenges and the promise of a childhood partially unplugged from social media surveillance and social pressure.