How Australia’s social media ban for under-16s could change the internet forever

Australia has made history by passing one of the toughest social media regulations in the world, barring children under the age of 16 from accessing platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X (formerly Twitter), and Snapchat. The law, passed on November 28, 2024, is set to take effect in January 2026, after a one-year trial period aimed at refining age verification methods.

This sweeping legislation comes in response to growing concerns over the harmful impact of social media on young people’s mental health and well-being. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated that the ban reflects the deep anxieties of Australian families about cyberbullying, exposure to harmful content, and addictive usage patterns among minors. By introducing this law, the government seeks to create a safer online environment for children, setting a global benchmark for regulating Big Tech.

A contentious yet popular move

Public sentiment has largely supported the ban, with surveys showing that 77% of Australians approve of the move. Many see it as a necessary measure to protect vulnerable youth from the dangers of unsupervised online engagement. However, critics argue that the law could lead to unintended consequences, including increased data collection for age verification and restricted access to essential online support networks.

Child rights organisations and privacy advocates have voiced concerns that the law might infringe on fundamental human rights, including freedom of expression and access to information. Some experts worry that it could drive tech-savvy young users to unregulated platforms, exposing them to even greater risks.

Global tech faces challenges

The legislation imposes significant penalties on social media companies that fail to comply, with fines reaching AUD 49.5 million (approximately USD 32 million). The enforcement of these rules will be overseen by Australia’s eSafety Commissioner, who will collaborate with the tech industry to develop age verification systems during the trial period.

Industry leaders, however, have expressed reservations. A representative from Meta Platforms, Inc., which owns Facebook and Instagram, criticised the rapid pace of the legislative process, stating that it lacked adequate consultation with the tech sector and young people. While Meta pledged to comply with Australian laws, the company stressed the need for balanced solutions that respect user privacy without placing undue burdens on families.

The international tech community is closely watching Australia’s regulatory shift. Elon Musk, owner of X, suggested that the law might be a covert method of expanding government control over internet access. Similar concerns have emerged globally, as other nations consider adopting comparable measures to regulate social media.

Balancing safety and freedom

While the law is an ambitious attempt to curb online harms, its implementation faces significant hurdles. The reliability and privacy implications of age verification technologies remain under scrutiny, with critics questioning whether such systems can prevent underage access without excessive data collection.

Furthermore, experts warn that blocking minors from mainstream platforms might inadvertently push them toward fringe websites or the dark web, where harmful content is more prevalent and less regulated. Thus, the success of this legislation will depend not only on its enforcement but also on the availability of safer, regulated alternatives for young users.

The global ripple effect

Australia’s proactive approach in holding tech companies accountable could inspire similar initiatives in other countries. With its past efforts, including laws requiring platforms to pay media outlets for content and combat online scams, the nation has already established itself as a leader in Big Tech regulation. This latest measure further solidifies its reputation as a pioneer in addressing the complex challenges of the digital age.

As the January 2026 rollout approaches, the world will watch closely to see how Australia navigates the balance between protecting its youngest citizens and preserving digital freedoms. The outcomes of this policy could influence the future of social media governance worldwide, potentially setting a new standard for global regulation.