Australia is considering more stringent measures to enforce its social media ban for users under 16. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated that the current regulation has seen limited impact on teen engagement with platforms like Instagram and YouTube.
Government's Response to Teen Social Media Use
The ban, implemented in December 2025, aimed to reduce minors' access to potentially harmful content online. However, a recent study highlighted that 85% of Australians aged 12 to 15 continue to use social media, often by misrepresenting their age.
What we want to do is to make sure that the laws are as strong as possible and that they will withstand any legal challenges which are made.
Anthony Albanese, Prime Minister of Australia
- Government plans to empower the eSafety Commission for better enforcement.
- Potential fines of A$49.5 million ($34 million) for platforms failing to comply.
The eSafety Commission is reportedly preparing to take legal action against several platforms. The results of the initial ban have prompted discussions on how to effectively regulate social media usage among young people.
This initiative reflects a growing global concern about the effects of social media on youth. Countries like the UK are observing Australia's approach closely as they develop their own regulations.