Australia has announced a significant expansion of its social media restrictions, now including YouTube in a ban targeting children under the age of 16. The new policy, set to take effect on December 10, 2025, prohibits minors from creating or managing YouTube accounts. However, they will still be able to view videos while logged out or through educational channels.
The decision follows a report by eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant, which revealed that nearly 40% of children aged 10 to 15 reported experiencing harm on YouTube. The government cited concerns over exposure to harmful content such as violence, eating disorders, and misogyny as key factors in extending the ban to the platform.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese emphasized the government’s commitment to protecting young Australians from online harm, stating that delaying access to social media until the age of 16 would safeguard their mental health during critical developmental years. Communications Minister Anika Wells defended the move, asserting that the government would not be intimidated by legal threats from tech companies.
YouTube’s parent company, Alphabet, has expressed opposition to the ban, arguing that YouTube is primarily a video-sharing platform and not a social media service. The company has warned that the policy could set a concerning precedent for global tech regulation.
The Australian government has warned that non-compliance by social media companies could result in fines of up to AUD 49.5 million. Enforcement will require new age verification technologies, which may raise privacy concerns among users.
This move positions Australia as a global leader in regulating children’s access to digital platforms, setting a precedent that other nations may consider following.
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