Australia ‘Doubles Down’ on Under-16 Social Media Ban, Doubles Fines to $99 Million

Australia's eSafety Commissioner will have expanded powers to investigate Big Tech companies.

Australia ‘Doubles Down’ on Under-16 Social Media Ban, Doubles Fines to $99 Million

TL;DR

  • Australia is increasing penalties and regulatory powers related to its ban on under-16s accessing social media.
  • The ban was first enacted in December 2025 to prevent children from viewing age-inappropriate content and address bullying and addiction.
  • Fines for non-compliance are being doubled.
  • Large social media companies are mandated to prevent users under 16 from accessing platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, X, YouTube, and Reddit.
  • Other countries such as Indonesia, Malaysia, and the United Kingdom have started implementing their own bans.