Australia has expanded its upcoming world-first ban on social media accounts for under-16s to include YouTube, reversing an earlier exemption and sparking further debate about online safety and freedom.
The ban, due to take effect in December, will now cover all major platforms including TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Snapchat, and now YouTube, which is owned by Google. Teenagers will still be able to watch videos without an account but will be barred from uploading content or engaging with the platform’s community features.
YouTube had previously argued that it should not fall under the ban, claiming in a statement on Wednesday that it “offers benefit and value to younger Australians” and is “not social media”. The company said it would “consider next steps” and continue to engage with the government.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese defended the decision, calling the move part of a broader strategy to tackle the “social harm” social media poses to young people.
“Social media is doing social harm to our children, and I want Australian parents to know that we have their backs,” he said. “We know that this is not the only solution, but it will make a difference.”
The eSafety Commissioner, Julie Inman Grant, had last month recommended that YouTube be added to the ban, stating it was “the most frequently cited platform” where children aged 10 to 15 encountered harmful content.
Federal Communications Minister Anika Wells echoed this sentiment, saying: “There’s not a place for predatory algorithms targeting children.” She likened the challenge to “trying to teach your kids to swim in the open ocean with the rips and the sharks compared to at the local council pool”.
“We can’t control the ocean, but we can police the sharks,” she added. “That is why we will not be intimidated by legal threats when this is a genuine fight for the wellbeing of Australian kids.”
Reports last week claimed that Google had threatened to sue the government if YouTube was included in the restrictions, citing concerns about curbs on political freedom.
Under the new rules, social media companies will be required to deactivate existing underage accounts, prevent new ones from being created, and block any workarounds. Failure to comply could lead to fines of up to A$50 million (£25.7m; $32.5m).
Exceptions to the ban will include online gaming, messaging services, educational tools, and health apps, which are considered to pose fewer social risks.
Norway has already announced a similar move, while the UK is reportedly considering adopting Australia’s model. More detailed legislation is expected to be presented to the federal parliament on Wednesday.
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