Australia Imposes World’s First Under-16 Social Media Ban

Australia has become the first country to ban users under 16 from major social media platforms, requiring sites like Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, Snapchat and X to enforce age checks. 

Supporters say it will protect children from online harms; critics argue it violates privacy, free expression, and will be easily bypassed. 

Early reports show many kids are already evading the rules. 

The move is being closely watched globally as other countries consider similar restrictions.  

Australia kicks teens off social apps. The global policy test begins