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Australia’s Under-16 Social Media Ban Largely Ignored, No Fines

6/27/2026

50 11 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Anthony Albanese said the government will treat the under-16 social-media ban as a priority and is weighing tougher measures against tech giants.
A BMJ study found 85 % of Australian 12- to 15-year-olds remained active on social media three months after the ban began.
The government can fine platforms up to $49.5 million for not blocking under-16 users, yet no penalties have been issued despite evidence of non-compliance.

History

Historical Context

The FTC’s February 2019 consent decree fined TikTok $5.7 million for COPPA violations, prompting a kids-only mode that limited data collection. Building on that precedent, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in 2024 empowered Australia’s ACCC to levy fines up to $49.5 million for platforms that let under-16 users bypass age checks. The earlier U.S. sanction frames today’s coordinated international pressure.

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Story summary

Anthony Albanese said the government will treat the under-16 social-media ban as a priority and is weighing tougher measures against tech giants.
A BMJ study found 85 % of Australian 12- to 15-year-olds remained active on social media three months after the ban began.
The government can fine platforms up to $49.5 million for not blocking under-16 users, yet no penalties have been issued despite evidence of non-compliance.

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