New Law: Social Media Restrictions for Australian Minors. For many years, reasonable people from all walks of life have expressed deep concerns about social media. Religious leaders, politicians, educators, and children’s advocate groups have voiced worries about the amount of time underage children spend on social media. And the adverse effects it had on their schoolwork.
But, nobody did anything worthwhile until now.
On Wednesday, December 10, 2025, according to AP, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese welcomed a new law. This law bans children under 16 from accessing social media. The law took effect instantly. He expressed that this law helps families reclaim control from technology companies. Nevertheless, he acknowledged that implementing the law will be a challenge.
Reports show that many children posted goodbye messages to their friends. Some parents noted that their kids were upset upon discovering they could no longer use social media.
There are reports of some younger children attempting to bypass the platform’s age verification by drawing on their faces to appear older. Additionally, authorities fear some parents and older siblings may help children circumvent the new rules.
In an interview, Albanese told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation: “This is the day Australian families take back power from big tech companies, asserting the right of kids to be kids and allowing parents greater peace of mind.”
“This reform will change lives. The ban will allow Australian kids to enjoy their childhood truly. For parents, it will offer increased peace of mind.”
Prime Minister Albanese also remarked that the global community is closely watching Australia, asking, “If Australia can do it, why can’t we?”
Earlier, he spoke to supporters at his official residence in Sydney, where he met with parents who blame social media for their child’s suicide.
Starting Wednesday, social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Kik, Reddit, Snapchat, Threads, TikTok, X, YouTube, and Twitch could face fines of up to 49.5 million Australian dollars (approximately $32.9 million) if they fail to take reasonable measures to remove accounts belonging to Australian children under 16.