Platforms struggle with Australia’s teen social media ban

In Short:
– Australia’s new social media ban for under-16s faces enforcement issues due to inadequate age-verification by platforms.
– Regulatory scrutiny may influence global social media regulations amid discussions on child online safety.

Enforcement issues with Australia’s new social media ban for users under 16 stem from platforms not using available age-verification tools properly. The Age Verification Providers Association (AVPA) reported that the main problem is the application of existing technology, not its capability.

Platforms failing

Australia’s eSafety Commissioner is examining major social media platforms, including Meta’s Facebook and Instagram, for potential breaches of the ban enacted on December 10, 2025.

Concerns have been raised regarding platforms’ failure to enforce age verification effectively, allowing underage individuals repeated attempts to bypass checks and lacking adequate reporting channels for underage accounts.

Fines of up to A$49.5 million can be imposed for systematic non-compliance, with regulatory decisions on potential court actions pending.

Recent regulatory data indicates millions of suspected underage accounts have been removed, but the AVPA report criticises platforms for inefficient use of age-checking tools.

Meta acknowledged age determination challenges but suggested better parental consent models could enhance compliance.

However, the AVPA asserts the issue lies with platform behaviour rather than technology effectiveness.

Countries such as Malaysia and New Zealand are observing Australia’s approach as they consider similar restrictions on social media.

Global implications

Other age-restricted platforms, including Reddit, X, Kick, Threads, and Twitch, are not under current investigation.

The UK is also engaging with tech executives to address children’s online safety amid ongoing debates on regulatory measures.

Recent discussions have explored possibilities for social media bans and age restrictions to enhance child protection online.

Rising international scrutiny may influence how social media regulations evolve worldwide.