Australia Implements Social Media Ban for Under-16s

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Canberra, December 5, 2025 – The Australian government, through the eSafety Commissioner, has officially announced a new policy banning social media access for users under the age of 16. The move aims to protect the mental health of teenagers and create a safer digital environment amid the growing risks associated with excessive social media use.

The ban covers popular platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and other widely used social media applications. Authorities emphasized that this policy is not merely an administrative restriction but part of a national strategy to educate and safeguard young people from age-inappropriate and potentially harmful digital content.

According to the eSafety Commissioner, multiple studies have shown that teenagers who spend excessive time on social media are at higher risk of mental health issues, including stress, anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances. Exposure to violent content or online bullying can further worsen their psychological and social well-being. The age restriction is expected to significantly reduce these risks.

Australia’s approach has also drawn international attention, as it is seen as a potential global regulatory model. Many countries are currently seeking ways to balance children’s right to access information with protection from harmful content. Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, has already begun adjusting its systems to comply with this regulation in Australia, including blocking account registration for users under 16.

In addition to age restrictions, the government stressed the importance of digital education for both parents and children. Schools, families, and communities are encouraged to teach healthy social media habits, recognize signs of stress caused by overuse, and understand online risks such as scams and cyberbullying.

While the ban applies to under-16 users, the eSafety Commissioner emphasized that monitoring older users remains crucial. Misleading, violent, or intimidating content will continue to be closely supervised to ensure a safe online experience for all users, including teenagers and young adults.

With this policy, Australia aims to cultivate a healthier, more resilient, and protected digital generation. The government plans to evaluate the effectiveness of the regulation periodically and adjust it as needed to ensure optimal protection for young people. This initiative also serves as a clear signal to international social media platforms to take greater responsibility for their younger users.