MELBOURNE, July 30 — In a historic reversal of its earlier decision, the Australian government has confirmed that YouTube will be included in its upcoming ban on social media platforms for children under 16. This groundbreaking regulation takes effect on December 10, 2025, and will subject non-compliant platforms to fines as high as AU$50 million (US$33 million).
YouTube was originally exempt from the legislation passed in November 2024, which introduced age restrictions for platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, and X. However, following new research and public concern, Communications Minister Anika Wells announced that YouTube will no longer receive special treatment.
“The evidence cannot be ignored that four out of 10 Australian kids report that their most recent harm was on YouTube,” said Wells. “We will not be intimidated by legal threats when this is a genuine fight for the wellbeing of Australian kids.”
The ban prohibits children under 16 from creating social media accounts, though it does not entirely block access to platforms or their content. This means children may still view videos but cannot sign in or interact via personal accounts.
YouTube, owned by Alphabet Inc., criticized the decision, calling it a reversal of a prior public commitment. The company insists that it functions as a video-sharing platform, not social media.
“Our position remains clear: YouTube is not social media,” a spokesperson said. “We’ll consider next steps and continue engaging with the government.”
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese voiced his strong support for the measure and announced that Australia would push for global social media age bans at a United Nations forum in New York this September.
While critics have raised questions about implementation, Minister Wells confirmed that the government would not require sensitive ID documents like passports or driver’s licenses. Instead, platforms are expected to use non-invasive age verification technologies.
Exemptions to the ban include platforms and apps dedicated to education, health, online gaming, and private messaging.
The move comes amid growing concern about the negative effects of social media on children, including mental health issues, sleep disruption, addiction, and exposure to harmful content.
This Australian-led initiative may mark a turning point in how nations approach child protection in the digital age.
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