UPDATE: More than 4.7 million social media accounts belonging to Australians under the age of 16 have been removed following the implementation of a new youth ban, authorities confirmed today. The ban, which took effect on December 11, 2024, aims to safeguard children from online risks and promote healthier digital habits.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese emphasized the significance of this initiative, stating, “Our government has acted to help keep kids safe online.” He noted that while change takes time, the early results reflect the necessity of this measure. According to Albanese, “We want our kids to have a childhood, and parents to know we have their backs.”
The legislation, described by Albanese as “world-leading,” mandates that popular social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, Threads, TikTok, X, Reddit, YouTube, Twitch, Kick, and Snapchat, must remove accounts held by users under 16. Companies began preemptively removing accounts as early as December 4. The responsibility for enforcement lies with the companies, not the users.
In a press conference in Murarrie, Queensland, Minister for Communications Anika Wells expressed optimism, stating, “Now Australian parents can be confident that their kids can have their childhood back.” She added that this initiative allows youth to explore their identities outside the constraints of social media.
The Australian government reports that around 2.5 million Australians are aged between 8 and 15, with data indicating that 84% of children in this age group had social media accounts in 2025. The eSafety Commissioner, Julie Inman Grant, confirmed that all targeted platforms are complying with the new regulations. Journalists raised concerns about the accuracy of account removal statistics, but Grant reassured them that “more than 95% of 8 to 15 year-olds were on YouTube,” reinforcing the validity of the numbers.
However, the new law has faced criticism from social media companies. Earlier this week, Meta expressed concerns that this restriction could isolate vulnerable teens, pushing them toward less reputable online services. Grant responded, stating, “What we’re actually doing is we’re preventing predatory social media companies from accessing our children.” She emphasized that the goal is not to eliminate all accounts but to protect children from potential harm.
Research indicates that social media exposure can lead to increased risks of harm, social isolation, depression, anxiety, and cyberbullying among teenagers. A 2024 study from Orygen, a leading organization focused on youth mental health, revealed that nearly all Australian youth reported daily social media use, with 40% spending three or more hours online each day.
The announcement on account removals comes just days after Meta revealed it had already eliminated over 500,000 accounts across its platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, and Threads. As these developments continue to unfold, Australian parents are encouraged to engage their children in real-world activities, fostering connections beyond the digital realm.
As Australia leads the charge in youth online safety, the global community watches closely, assessing the implications of such legislative measures on child welfare and digital engagement.
