Australia becomes the first country to ban social media for under-16s

Australia bans social media for children under 16, marking a historic step in youth online safety regulations.

Australia has made history, becoming the first country to ban social media access for children under 16. From midnight, platforms including TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram will be blocked for young users across the nation. The move marks one of the strongest regulatory actions ever taken on youth online safety.

The new law requires ten major digital platforms to comply or face fines of up to A$49.5 million. The decision comes amid growing global concerns about the impact of social media on children’s mental health, with other countries watching closely as they consider similar measures.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese says the ban is designed to support young Australians and reduce harmful pressures created by constant digital engagement. While platforms are preparing to use age-inference technology to comply, critics warn the ban could isolate vulnerable teens.

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