Story perspectives

Australia Bans Under-16 Social Media Use Amid Criticism

11/27/2025

Summary

Story summary

The Government of Australia will ban social media use for users under 16 starting December 10, potentially deactivating over one million accounts and imposing hefty fines.
Malaysia announced a ban, to take effect next year.
Critics, including UNICEF Australia, say the ban limits access to information and fails to address online safety.
Snapchat is implementing age verification to comply, while New Zealand and Indonesia are considering similar restrictions.

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Story summary

The Government of Australia will ban social media use for users under 16 starting December 10, potentially deactivating over one million accounts and imposing hefty fines.
Malaysia announced a ban, to take effect next year.
Critics, including UNICEF Australia, say the ban limits access to information and fails to address online safety.
Snapchat is implementing age verification to comply, while New Zealand and Indonesia are considering similar restrictions.