What's happened
Australia's new law requires 10 major social media platforms to block under-16s or face fines of up to AU$49.5 million. While platforms have deactivated 5 million accounts, concerns remain over compliance and effectiveness, with investigations ongoing into potential non-compliance by major companies like Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube.
What's behind the headline?
The Australian law represents a pioneering effort to regulate social media for children's safety, setting a global precedent. Platforms have made some progress, deactivating millions of accounts, but significant gaps remain, especially in verifying age and preventing children from bypassing restrictions. The investigation into non-compliance indicates that enforcement will be challenging, as companies argue that accurate age verification is technically difficult. The courts will likely determine whether platforms have taken 'reasonable steps' to comply, which could influence future regulation worldwide. The law's success depends on how effectively authorities can enforce these standards and whether platforms will invest in more robust age verification methods. This regulatory push signals a broader shift towards prioritizing online safety for minors, potentially prompting other countries to follow suit.
What the papers say
The Independent reports that the eSafety Commissioner is investigating Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, and YouTube for potential non-compliance, highlighting concerns over platforms' efforts to prevent under-16 accounts. The report notes that while 5 million accounts have been deactivated, many children still retain or create new accounts, passing age verification systems. The platforms cite the difficulty of accurate age determination, with Meta stating that 'accurately determining age online is a challenge for the whole industry.' Meanwhile, Sky News emphasizes that the law is part of a global trend, with France and the UK considering or implementing similar measures. France's proposed ban on children under 15 and the UK's plans for social media curfews and restrictions reflect a growing international focus on protecting minors online. Critics argue that platforms are doing the minimum necessary, risking legal action and reputational damage, while proponents see the law as a vital step in safeguarding children's mental health and safety online.
How we got here
In December 2025, Australia implemented a law requiring the largest social media platforms to prevent children under 16 from holding accounts. The legislation aims to protect young users from online harms, with penalties for non-compliance. The law was prompted by rising concerns over children's health and safety online, and is considered one of the world's strictest digital regulations.
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