Australia Expands Social Media Ban for Under-16s
Australia has added Reddit and the livestreaming platform Kick to its list of social media sites that must block users under 16, extending a groundbreaking law coming into effect next month.
Platforms Included and Legal Requirements
Reddit and Kick will join Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X, Snapchat, Threads, and YouTube under a "world-first legal obligation" to prevent children under 16 from opening or maintaining accounts, announced Communications Minister Anika Wells.
Companies failing to comply could face fines up to A$50 million (approximately $33 million).
“We have met with several of the social media platforms in the past month so that they understand there is no excuse for failure to implement this law,” said Wells in Canberra.
“Online platforms use technology to target children with chilling control. We are merely asking that they use that same technology to keep children safe online.”
Oversight and Future Developments
The eSafety Commissioner, Julie Inman Grant, will oversee enforcement and indicated the list of restricted platforms will update as new technologies emerge.
“We’ll also look for unintended consequences and we’ll be gathering evidence so that others could learn from Australia’s achievements,” Grant explained, highlighting ongoing research into how the ban might impact children’s sleep, social habits, and physical activity.
International Impact
This initiative has attracted attention globally, emphasizing Australia's role as a pioneer in protecting children online.
Summary: Australia is pioneering a global first by legally requiring major social media platforms, including Reddit and Kick, to block users under 16 to protect children’s online safety.