Australia Imposes Strict Age Limits on Social Media Use

Australia has taken a significant step to protect children's online safety by implementing strict age restrictions on social media platforms. Children under the age of 16 will now require parental consent to create accounts on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. This move aims to safeguard young users from online harms, such as cyberbullying, exposure to harmful content, and privacy breaches.

At a recent press conference, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese emphasized the government’s motivations for introducing a proposed social media ban for children under 16. Albanese cited research linking excessive social media use to mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and negative body image, particularly in young girls. He also highlighted concerns about the impact of misogynistic content on boys, noting that exposure to such material can shape attitudes during critical developmental periods.

The legislation would prohibit anyone under 16 from using social media, even with parental consent, and would require existing accounts for those under the age threshold to be removed. This strict approach places Australia ahead of countries with similar measures, like France, which allows access with parental approval.

To enforce the ban, Australia is trialing advanced age-verification methods, including biometrics and government ID checks, placing the responsibility on social media companies rather than parents. Communications Minister Michelle Rowland described the policy as "world-leading" and suggested it could serve as a model for other nations.

This policy proposal comes amid global concerns over children’s social media use. In the U.S., for instance, companies must obtain parental consent to collect data from users under 13, setting the minimum age for account creation at 13. France has introduced a similar proposal for children under 15, and the U.K. is also exploring stricter regulations.

Australia’s approach stands out with its higher age threshold, lack of parental-consent allowances, and immediate removal of existing accounts under the age limit. If passed, this legislation could represent a significant shift in global social media regulation.

However, not all reactions have been positive. Sunita Bose, Managing Director of the Digital Industry Group Inc. (DIGI)—representing major platforms like Meta, TikTok, and Alphabet—expressed concerns that an outright ban may drive young people toward less-regulated online spaces. She warned that limiting teens’ access to social media might deprive them of supportive digital communities. Bose suggested a more balanced approach that includes age-appropriate platforms, digital literacy programs, and stronger content safeguards, saying, “Keeping young people safe online is a top priority, but the proposed ban for teenagers is a 20th Century response to 21st Century challenges.”

The bill is expected to be introduced to the Australian parliament later this year, with potential implementation by the end of next year. If successful, Australia’s measure could set a global standard for social media age verification and restrictions. Social media companies are under increasing pressure to adapt, as governments worldwide seek to balance protecting children’s mental and emotional health with providing safe online spaces.

Australia’s proposed under-16 social media ban marks a bold and unprecedented step in safeguarding youth well-being. With mounting concerns over social media’s effects on mental health and societal norms, this legislation could inspire similar policies globally. The coming year will determine if this pioneering approach becomes law and how it influences digital safety strategies worldwide.