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Australia is preparing to introduce one of the most sweeping youth safety measures in the digital world, becoming the first democratic nation to ban under-16s from using major social media platforms such as TikTok and Instagram. The move, which has attracted global attention, is set to take effect on 10 December and could pave the way for similar crackdowns in other countries.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n Under the new law, platforms will be required to block users below the age of 16. Companies that fail to comply face fines of up to 49.5 million <\/span>Australian dollars<\/span><\/a>. The legislation arrives amid growing international concerns about the harms of digital platforms, including cyberbullying and addictive design features.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n Governments from Europe to Asia and South America are closely studying the Australian rollout. Digital policymakers in Denmark, Brazil, Indonesia and Malaysia have already signalled intentions to pursue stricter age-based controls. Spain, New Zealand and Singapore have also expressed interest in adopting similar approaches.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n Danish digital affairs minister<\/span> Caroline Stage Olsen<\/span><\/a> said she welcomed the boldness of the move, calling it an important step at a time when young people are increasingly shaped by online life.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n Teens form a significant share of global social media use, and the platforms rely heavily on advertising revenues. Analysts estimate that the sector will generate more than 245 billion US dollars in 2025. Reducing access for younger users could affect the financial models of companies such as Meta, Snap and TikTok.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n Several major platforms have accepted the ruling but warn that the restrictions may be difficult to enforce and could push young people towards less regulated online spaces. Meta, the owner of Facebook and Instagram, argues that parental tools and education are more effective than bans.<\/span> TikTok and Snap<\/span><\/a> have raised similar concerns.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n The political push began after South Australia\u2019s premier, Peter Malinauskas, was urged by his wife to address the growing influence of smartphones on children. Her concerns were prompted by Jonathan Haidt\u2019s widely discussed book The Anxious Generation, which explores links between social media and mental health. Following a short period of intense debate, Australia\u2019s federal government fast-tracked legislation in late 2024.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n Parents who have lost children to cyberbullying played a key role in pressing for reform. Among them is Emma Mason, a children\u2019s lawyer whose daughter Tilly died by suicide in 2022 after sustained online harassment. Mason has since campaigned internationally, urging world leaders to adopt stronger protections for minors.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n Campaign groups warn that stricter age limits may have unintended effects. Amnesty International Australia\u2019s Nikita White said LGBTQ young people in particular rely on online spaces for support and connection, adding that a blanket ban risks cutting off vital lifelines.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n Youth advocates also argue that harmful content is the core issue rather than access alone. Sixteen-year-old Patrick Jones of UrVoice Australia<\/a> has questioned whether the law tackles the root problem, saying, \u201cIt is the content that is the problem, not our access to that content.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/div>\nWhat are the penalties for tech firms?<\/span><\/h2>\n
Global leaders support the decision<\/span><\/h2>\n
Economic stakes for big tech<\/span><\/h2>\n
Tech firms warn of risks<\/span><\/h2>\n
How the ban gained momentum<\/span><\/h2>\n
Concerns from advocacy groups<\/span><\/h2>\n