Australia Pioneers Social Media ban for under-16s, Sparking Global Debate
CANBERRA – Australia became the first nation to enact a sweeping ban on social media access for individuals under the age of 16, with the law taking effect December 10th. the legislation, passed in November 2024, raises the minimum age for social media accounts from 13 to 16, prompting immediate discussion among young people and a wave of interest from governments worldwide.
The move addresses growing concerns about the impact of social media on youth mental health and well-being.The ban encompasses major platforms including YouTube, X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, and Reddit, with provisions for expanding the list. While the Australian government simultaneously launched a public awareness campaign, themed “for the best interests of the children,” carried out – notably – on social media, young users are already strategizing ways to circumvent the new rules. “Everyone talks all the time about how to deal with the ban, how to get around it. It is indeed indeed a hot issue,” one observer noted.
The legislation is already inspiring similar action internationally. France recently passed a law requiring parental consent for children under 15 to use social media, and Denmark’s coalition government has agreed to introduce a 15-year-old age limit. In Sweden, an inquiry is underway, led by Minister of Social Affairs Jakob Forssmed, to explore the feasibility of implementing a similar age restriction, with findings expected by June 12, 2026.
Experts suggest the long-term effects of Australia’s ban remain to be seen,notably regarding the social growth of children who would have otherwise gained access to these platforms earlier. One concern voiced is how the law will impact children who haven’t yet reached the typical age of receiving a phone – around grade six – and their future relationship with social media. The Australian government maintains the ban is a necessary step to protect vulnerable young people from potential harms associated with online platforms.
