Australia plans to ban social media for children under 16, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced, citing risks to mental and physical health. The proposed legislation, set to be introduced this year, includes strict age verification using biometrics or government IDs and offers no exemptions for parental consent or pre-existing accounts. The ban, targeting platforms like Instagram, TikTok and YouTube, aims to hold companies accountable for restricting underage access. While the opposition supports the move, industry groups warn it may push teens toward unregulated online spaces. If passed, the law could take effect in late 2025.
Australia will ban social media for children under 16
