When did Australia ban social media for under-16s?

Australia enacted its law prohibiting social media account creation for individuals under 16 in December 2025.

What are the penalties for companies violating Australia's social media law?

Companies that violate Australia's law face potential fines of up to $49.5 million AUD.

Which other countries are implementing restrictions on teen social media use?

Malaysia, Spain, Greece, France, and Denmark are among the countries implementing or planning similar age restrictions for social media use.

Home / Technology / Australia Bans Under-16s from Social Media

Australia Bans Under-16s from Social Media

24 Feb

•

Summary

Australia banned under-16s from social media in December 2025.
Companies face hefty fines for non-compliance with the new law.
Malaysia, Spain, Greece, France, and Denmark are implementing similar rules.

Australia Bans Under-16s from Social Media

Australia enacted a landmark law in December 2025, becoming the first country to prohibit social media account creation for anyone under the age of 16. Companies found violating this regulation face penalties of up to $49.5 million AUD. The initiative, spearheaded by the eSafety Commissioner, is designed to safeguard young Australians from the inherent pressures and dangers of social media platforms, including addictive design features and exposure to harmful content.

This pioneering legislation has sparked a global trend. Malaysia and Spain implemented similar bans in early 2026. Additionally, Greece, France, and Denmark are actively developing their own restrictions targeting users under 15 or 16. Experts suggest this growing wave of regulations could influence other nations, with the United States potentially being the next to consider such measures, according to policy advisors focused on youth well-being.

Disclaimer: This story has been auto-aggregated and auto-summarised by a computer program. This story has not been edited or created by the Feedzop team.

Australia Bans Under-16s from Social Media

24 Feb

•

Summary

Australia banned under-16s from social media in December 2025.
Companies face hefty fines for non-compliance with the new law.
Malaysia, Spain, Greece, France, and Denmark are implementing similar rules.

Disclaimer: This story has been auto-aggregated and auto-summarised by a computer program. This story has not been edited or created by the Feedzop team.