Australia to Ban Social Media Access for Users Under 16

A teenager with a mobile phone. Photo: Getty Images

CANBERRA — Australia will become the first country to bar minors under 16 from social media, the government announced on Nov. 24, 2025. Beginning Dec. 10, platforms will be required to block underage users and delete or deactivate existing accounts belonging to teens, the BBC reports.

Officials say the move follows alarming data showing widespread exposure to harmful content among young users. A government study found that 96% of children aged 10–15 use social media, with seven in 10 encountering dangerous material including misogyny, eating-disorder promotion, and posts related to suicide or violence. One in seven reported grooming attempts by adults or older teens.

The ban will cover major platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, Threads, X, YouTube, and Reddit, as well as streaming services Kick and Twitch. The list may expand depending on how platforms enable user interaction and content sharing.

Several services, including Roblox and Discord, have already begun strengthening age-verification systems to avoid potential restrictions. Authorities say the new rules aim to create a safer online environment for children and expect companies to deploy robust technical solutions to prevent underage access.

Previously, UOJ reported that Australia's "baby bonus" is now funding late-term abortions.

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