Social media age limits for teens spread beyond Australia

Australia’s move to bar under-16s from major social media platforms is accelerating a global push for stricter age rules, as governments from Europe to Asia explore similar laws to curb online harms and improve youth safety.

Australia will become the first democratic nation to prohibit children under 16 from using platforms such as TikTok and Instagram, with the law coming into force on 10 December. The measure requires tech firms to block underage users or face fines of up to AUD 49.5 million.

The ban marks one of the most ambitious attempts yet to address growing concerns over cyberbullying, addictive app design and the mental health effects of unregulated digital spaces. It also reflects mounting political pressure after parents and youth advocates highlighted the increasing toll of online harassment, including high-profile cases involving teen suicides.

The proposal gained momentum following rising public debate and influence from research such as Jonathan Haidt’s The Anxious Generation, which links early exposure to social media with anxiety and self-esteem issues among adolescents.

Countries move quickly to consider their own restrictions

Australia’s decision has inspired policymakers worldwide. Denmark, Brazil, Indonesia, Malaysia, Spain, New Zealand and Singapore are among the governments studying the ban or preparing to adopt similar measures.

Brazil is planning to require under-16 users to link accounts to a parent or guardian, while Indonesia will soon make parental approval mandatory for anyone under 18. Denmark is assessing a national prohibition for under-15s, with exceptions for 13- and 14-year-olds who have parental consent. Senior Danish officials have described Australia’s policy as a significant step toward rethinking how young people engage with digital platforms.

Several governments have said they are watching Australia’s rollout closely, viewing it as a test case for stronger age-verification rules and tighter oversight of Big Tech’s influence on children.

Tech industry and advocacy groups warn of challenges

While Meta, TikTok and Snap have agreed to comply with Australia’s law, they have cautioned that enforcing age limits at scale remains difficult and may drive young people toward less regulated online spaces. Social media firms also rely heavily on teen users; analysts estimate that the sector will generate more than USD 245 billion in advertising revenue in 2025.

Advocacy groups warn that a blanket ban could unintentionally isolate young people who depend on online communities. Amnesty International Australia notes that LGBTQ youth in particular rely on digital networks for support. Youth representatives also argue that harmful content, rather than access alone, remains the core issue.

Even so, senior experts such as former Meta engineering director Arturo Béjar insist that government intervention is necessary, citing internal research showing alarming levels of unwanted contact involving minors. His testimony has strengthened calls for global action at a time when more countries appear ready to follow Australia’s lead.