Australia to Ban Under-16s from YouTube and Major Social Platforms Over Algorithm Concerns

Australia to ban under-16s from YouTube and social media by December in major online safety overhaul.

Government cites harmful content, critics question enforcement as tech firms push back on policy.

Australia will soon prohibit children under the age of 16 from using YouTube and other major social media platforms as part of new online safety laws aimed at protecting young users from harmful content and algorithm-driven exposure.

Communications Minister Anika Wells announced the decision on Wednesday, stating that a significant number of Australian children about four in ten have reported encountering disturbing material on YouTube.

“We want children to grow into their identities without being shaped by what online platforms assume or promote,” Wells said. “Social media has its place, but it should not involve algorithms that prey on young users.”

The move is part of Australia’s broader plan to raise the minimum age for accessing platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, and X to 16. The government had initially suggested YouTube would be excluded due to its educational uses, but that exemption has now been removed.

“Young people under the age of 16 will not be allowed to create or hold accounts on YouTube,” Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed. “This rule will apply to other major platforms too. We want parents and families in Australia to know that we’re acting in their best interest.”

Albanese acknowledged the policy might not be enforced flawlessly comparing it to underage drinking laws but insisted it was a step in the right direction.

YouTube, however, pushed back against the announcement. A spokesperson said the decision marked a sharp change in tone from the government. “YouTube is a video-sharing platform, not a social media service,” the company stated. “We offer free, high-quality content often viewed on TV screens, especially in classrooms.”

The ban, set to take effect on December 10, would rank among the strictest social media restrictions globally. Yet, critics point out that the law lacks clear enforcement mechanisms, raising doubts about its effectiveness.

Under the law, tech companies that fail to comply could face fines of up to AUD$49.5 million (about USD$32 million).

Several platforms and digital rights experts have criticized the legislation. TikTok accused the government of overlooking input from youth mental health and online safety professionals. Meta, which owns Facebook and Instagram, said the ban would place an “unfair burden on parents and teenagers.”

Despite the backlash, the legislation is being closely watched around the world, with other countries considering similar restrictions on youth access to social platforms.