Australia’s Teen Social Media Ban: What’s Coming December 10
Starting December 10, 2025, Australia will implement landmark legislation requiring all social media platforms to prevent users under 16 from accessing their apps. This significant regulatory move marks the first major government enforcement of teen social media restrictions, setting a precedent that many countries are watching closely.
Age Detection: The Technology Challenge
Australia conducted extensive testing of various age verification methods, including video selfie scanning, age inference algorithms, and parental consent requirements. However, the government found no single universal solution that would be effective across all platforms and use cases. Rather than mandating an industry standard, Australia allows each platform to choose its preferred age-detection method while meeting “reasonable steps” requirements.
This flexible approach has raised concerns about potential legal loopholes. If platforms fail to restrict teens effectively, they could argue they’re taking adequate measures with their chosen technology. YouTube has already refused compliance, claiming it’s a video platform rather than social media, while Meta, TikTok, and Snapchat oppose the restrictions but say they’ll comply.
Global Movement Toward Stricter Controls
The financial stakes are considerable—Meta faces losing approximately 450,000 Australian users under 16, while TikTok stands to lose around 200,000 young users. These numbers explain why platforms are resisting, though they’re simultaneously developing new age verification systems.
Australia’s approach is inspiring similar legislation worldwide. France, Greece, Denmark, and Spain are proposing comparable restrictions, while New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, and the U.K. are implementing their own teen protection regulations.
As more regions adopt age restrictions, social platforms will need improved verification measures regardless. The critical question remains: whether vague legal standards will prove enforceable without industry-wide standardization.