When will Instagram accounts be closed for under-16s in Australia?

Instagram accounts for young teenagers in Australia will begin to be shut down from December 4th.

Why is Instagram closing accounts for young Australians?

Instagram is complying with a new Australian law that bans social media use for individuals under the age of 16.

Is Australia the only country with a social media ban for minors?

Yes, Australia is the first country in the world to implement a ban on social media usage for individuals under 16.

Home / Technology / Instagram Accounts Shut Down for Aussie Teens

Instagram Accounts Shut Down for Aussie Teens

21 Nov, 2025

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Summary

Instagram begins closing accounts of young Australian teenagers.
New Australian law bans social media use for under-16s.
Account closures start December 4th, impacting young users.

Instagram Accounts Shut Down for Aussie Teens

Instagram is beginning to shut down accounts of its young users in Australia in preparation for a nationwide ban on social media for those under 16. This significant legislative move establishes Australia as the first nation worldwide to enact such restrictions on digital platform usage for minors.

Meta, the technology giant that owns Instagram, has commenced notifying some of its younger Australian users about the impending account closures. These deactivations are scheduled to commence on December 4th, marking a concrete step in enforcing the new law.

The new legislation, passed by the Australian government last year, targets the online activities of children under 16, aiming to regulate their engagement with certain digital platforms. The implementation of this ban underscores a growing global concern regarding youth online safety and digital well-being.