Australia is set to implement a groundbreaking social media ban for children under the age of 16, beginning on December 10. This initiative, labeled as a world-first, mandates that social media platforms deactivate existing accounts of users under 16 and prevent any new accounts from being created by this age group. The eSafety Commissioner will oversee compliance, requiring platforms to take “reasonable steps” to enforce the ban or face fines of up to $49.5 million.
Details of the Ban and Impacted Platforms
The ban will affect a range of popular social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, X (formerly Twitter), YouTube, Reddit, Twitch, and Kick. These platforms must ensure that any user identified as under 16 is removed from their services. The list of affected platforms is dynamic, meaning that additional apps could be added if they become popular among underage users after the ban takes effect.
In contrast, several platforms are exempt from this ban, including Roblox, YouTube Kids, Google Classroom, and Pinterest. The eSafety Commissioner, Julie Inman Grant, clarified that the responsibility lies with each platform to self-assess their compliance needs. For example, the alternative platform Bluesky was deemed “very low risk” due to its small user base in Australia.
Age Verification and User Options
The methods for verifying age will vary by platform. The Australian government stipulates that relying solely on ID checks is not acceptable. For instance, Meta has not disclosed its specific verification approach for users believed to be under 16, while Snapchat plans to use behavioral signals and birthdate information for its assessments. TikTok will employ a “multi-layered approach” combining technology and human moderation.
In terms of user options, platforms like Facebook and Instagram will allow users under 16 to either download their content and temporarily deactivate their accounts or delete them entirely. TikTok will provide similar options, enabling users to archive their content before deactivation. Snapchat indicated it would lock accounts for users under 16 until they can verify their age, affecting an estimated 440,000 users in Australia.
For users aged 16 and older who are mistakenly categorized as under 16, an appeals process will be available. Meta will use facial recognition technology, while Snapchat will allow appeals through government ID verification or bank card checks.
As the launch date approaches, concerns about the ban’s practicality and effectiveness have emerged. The government has acknowledged that not all underage accounts will be removed immediately, with Inman Grant stating, “We do not anticipate that all the under 16 accounts will automatically or magically disappear on December 10th overnight.”
Despite ongoing discussions and a challenge from John Ruddick, a NSW Libertarian MP, regarding the implications for political communication, the government remains committed to the launch. Major platforms, including Meta, TikTok, and Snapchat, have confirmed their willingness to comply with the new regulations.
As this initiative unfolds, its impact on young users and their access to social media will be closely monitored, setting a precedent for potential similar actions in other countries.
