Australia's groundbreaking social media ban for users under 16 took effect on December 10, 2025, requiring 10 major platforms—including Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube—to block underage accounts. The move, hailed as a global first, aims to shield young people from algorithmic pressures and excessive screen time.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese urged students in a Tuesday video message to embrace school holidays by exploring hobbies and spending time with family. "Face-to-face interactions matter more than ever," he emphasized, reflecting widespread concerns about digital overexposure.
The Online Safety Amendment Bill, passed in November 2024, mandates fines up to AU$49.5 million for noncompliant platforms. While 73% of Australians support the ban, skepticism remains: 68% doubt its enforceability, according to a Pureprofile poll released earlier this month.
Major platforms like Reddit have pledged compliance but criticized the policy's feasibility and privacy risks. Meanwhile, nations such as Malaysia and New Zealand are reportedly exploring similar measures, signaling a potential shift in global digital regulation.
