In a world-first move, Australia is set to enforce a nationwide minimum-age requirement for social media use, effective December 10, 2025. Under the new law, ten of the largest social platforms including Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, Snapchat, X (formerly Twitter), Reddit, Twitch and others — must block users under the age of 16, or face fines up to A$49.5 million (about USD 33 million).
The legislation part of an amendment to the existing online-safety framework aims to protect children from harmful content, addiction, and social-media–related mental-health risks. Proponents, including parents and child-welfare advocates, have lauded the move as the bold, overdue step needed to safeguard young users.
Most of the targeted platforms (except X) have pledged to comply. Their measures may include age-verification systems: requiring government ID, employing AI-based age estimation from selfies, or asking for linked bank-card details. Platforms are also expected to deactivate existing under-16 accounts or put them in “frozen” mode until the user turns 16.
But the law has already drawn strong criticism from civil-liberties and free-speech advocates. Critics argue that such a sweeping ban infringes on minors’ rights to political expression and access to information, and that forcing technology firms to collect or verify sensitive personal data could erode user privacy.
Observers say Australia may have triggered the beginning of a “global crackdown” on unregulated social-media access for minors. Governments in several countries already concerned about online harm, misinformation, and youth mental health are now watching closely. The law may well set a precedent, reshaping how democracies regulate Big Tech and protect younger citizens online.
As of now, fewer than 24 hours remain until the rule’s implementation setting the stage for what many expect will be a major restructuring of how young people worldwide access and experience social media.