Australia on Wednesday became the first country in the world to ban social media access for teenagers under 16, an unprecedented measure designed to protect minors from the risks associated with digital platforms. Several companies in the sector, including Elon Musk's X (formerly Twitter), have indicated they will comply with the new regulations, with the latter having agreed to implement the restrictions.
Ten major platforms—including TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, and Snapchat—have been ordered to block children's access or face heavy fines. They will have to implement stricter age verification systems and prevent users under 16 from registering or logging in.
The measure, which came into effect on December 10, comes as Australian authorities say they want to reduce children's exposure to harassment, misinformation, harmful content, and the mental health risks associated with heavy social media use. According to the government, this regulation is a crucial step in ensuring the digital safety of young people in an environment that has become particularly difficult to control.
The Australian initiative could inspire other countries already considering strengthening their laws on the protection of minors online. International debates on the regulation of social networks and the responsibility of platforms are intensifying, as experts continue to warn of the harmful effects of these tools on the development and well-being of adolescents.
