Sydney: Australia has said the world may follow its example as major social media platforms begin blocking users under the age of 16 ahead of a new national law coming into effect next week. Meta, the owner of Facebook and Instagram, has already started restricting access for teens as the country prepares to enforce one of the strictest online safety rules in the world.
Under the new law, children under 16 will not be allowed to create or use accounts on major platforms including Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, Snapchat and YouTube. The rules are aimed at protecting young people from online harm, including bullying, exploitation and mental health risks.
Companies that do not comply could face penalties of up to 49.5 million Australian dollars.
Australia’s eSafety Commissioner said the step marks a global change and predicted that other countries will introduce similar laws in the future. Officials believe this could set a new standard for how young people use the internet.
Meta and other platforms have advised affected users to download their data before their accounts are deactivated. Some parents have welcomed the move, while others say it limits young people’s ability to socialise and learn digital skills.
There have already been challenges to the policy. A group supported by the Digital Freedom Project has asked the High Court of Australia to block the law, arguing that it limits freedom of expression and prevents young people from participating in public conversations online.
Some users have also reported that their accounts were removed by mistake. The Telecommunications Industry Ombudsman has said it is not currently able to help with complaints linked to social media account closures.
Other large platforms, including TikTok and YouTube, have confirmed they will comply with the new rules.
The debate continues as the ban officially takes effect on December 10. Many experts say the coming months will show whether the new restrictions improve safety or create new problems, including teens turning to unregulated online spaces.
Governments in Europe, Asia and North America are watching Australia’s approach closely as pressure grows worldwide to increase online protections for children.