YouTube Warns: Australia’s Under-16 Social Media Ban May Not Make Kids Safer Online
Australia’s ambitious plan to ban children under the age of 16 from social media by the end of 2025 has sparked heated debate. While the move is seen as “well-intentioned,” tech giant YouTube believes it may not achieve its intended goal of protecting young users.
The proposed legislation, championed by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, aims to hold platforms like Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube accountable—with heavy fines for those who break the rules. However, YouTube argues it should not fall under the same category as traditional social media, claiming its platform operates differently.
Rachel Lord, YouTube’s local spokesperson, told a senate committee that although the government’s motive was admirable, the approach could lead to “unintended consequences.” She stated,
“The legislation will be extremely difficult to enforce and doesn’t necessarily make kids safer online. Well-crafted laws can enhance existing safety efforts—but the solution isn’t to stop kids from being online, it’s to make their online experience safer.”
Lord further emphasized that YouTube is not a social media service and should be considered “out of scope” under the proposed ban.
Australia has long been recognized for taking proactive steps against online harm, but experts are concerned that this particular law may lack clarity and practical implementation. Some have even called it “symbolic” or “rushed,” pointing out that details on enforcement remain vague.
Under the current proposal, social media companies could face fines of up to AUS$49.5 million (US$32 million) for non-compliance. While the government recently clarified that platforms won’t be forced to verify every user’s age, they must take “reasonable steps” to detect and remove underage accounts.
As the world watches, this debate highlights a deeper issue: how to balance child safety, digital literacy, and freedom in an increasingly connected age. Protecting children online requires more than bans—it requires education, awareness, and cooperation between parents, governments, and tech companies.