Australian officials have announced plans to tighten regulations after evidence indicated that the country’s ban on social media accounts for children under 16 has been ineffective since taking effect in December 2025.
The ban, one of the most stringent measures of its kind globally, was introduced to protect young people from potential harms associated with social media use. However, officials revealed that the policy has not achieved its intended results, prompting consideration of stronger measures.
Australia’s law requiring social media platforms to prevent under-16s from holding accounts drew international attention as governments worldwide grapple with concerns about the effects of social media on children’s mental health, safety and development. Enforcement of age restrictions has proven challenging, with questions over verification methods and circumvention.
The acknowledgment that the ban is failing reflects the practical difficulties of regulating online access for minors, including the ease with which age checks can be bypassed. Officials indicated that tighter rules would be developed to address the shortcomings.
The policy and its struggles are being closely observed by other countries weighing similar restrictions. Australia’s experience may inform broader debates over how best to balance child protection with the realities of enforcement in the digital environment, as authorities seek more effective tools to uphold the intent of the law.
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Sources:
https://www.npr.org/sections/world/