Australia’s social media ban is not stopping under-16 use

What's happened

A BMJ study finds that three months after Australia introduced a blanket ban on under-16s from major social platforms, around 85% of youths report still using the sites, with common circumvention methods including self-declared ages, fake accounts, and VPNs. The UK plans a similar ban by 2027, but experts warn the approach lacks a coherent strategy and may not improve well-being.

What's behind the headline?

Insight

• The BMJ study shows that bans alone do not reliably curb youth access or screen time on high-risk platforms.
• Age-verification methods vary in effectiveness; self-declaration and photo uploads are common, while fake accounts and VPNs persist.
• The findings challenge policy designers to pair bans with accountability and education to drive uptake and ensure safety.

Implications

• For readers: expect ongoing debates and potential policy refinements in the UK as it pursues a similar mandate by spring 2027.
• The story suggests caution against policymaking that relies on bans without parallel safety measures.

Forecast

• The next steps will likely involve clearer verification protocols and targeted safeguards for teenagers, with progress measured over longer timelines.

How we got here

Australia implemented the world’s first blanket ban on under-16 social media use in December 2025. A University of Newcastle study surveying 408 children aged 12-17 found limited implementation and substantial circumvention, suggesting the policy’s effects may take years to materialize.

Our analysis

The Guardian reports that over 80% of Australian under-16s remain on social platforms post-ban, while The Independent and The Mirror outline the BMJ study results. All three highlight criticisms that bans alone are insufficient and call for stronger strategies and accountability. Direct quotes emphasize concerns about safety and the need for a coherent plan; see BMJ publication and statements from Molly Rose Foundation.

Go deeper

• Will the UK’s forthcoming ban implement similar age-verification measures as Australia?
• What safety safeguards beyond a ban are policymakers considering to protect teens online?
• How should parents adjust to ongoing changes in social media regulation?

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• Australia - Country in Oceania

  Australia, officially known as the Commonwealth of Australia, is a sovereign country comprising the mainland of the Australian continent, the island of Tasmania, and numerous smaller islands.

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• United Kingdom - Country in Europe

  The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, commonly known as the United Kingdom or Britain, is a sovereign country located off the north­western coast of the European mainland.

• The BMJ - Peer-reviewed journal

  The BMJ is a weekly peer-reviewed medical journal. It is one of the world's oldest general medical journals. Originally called the British Medical Journal, the title was officially shortened to BMJ in 1988, and then changed to The BMJ in 2014.

• Keir Starmer - Member of Parliament of the United Kingdom

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