Australia's social media ban bans 4.7 million teen accounts in first month
Australian law requiring major social media platforms to suspend accounts of people under the age of 16 has resulted in the suspension of many accounts. A regulator said they were 'very pleased with the results.'
Platforms restrict access to 4.7 million under-16 accounts across Australia | eSafety Commissioner
Australia social media ban hits 4.7 million teen accounts in first month | Reuters
https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/australia-social-media-ban-hits-47-million-teen-accounts-first-month-2026-01-15/
Under Australia's social media ban law, from December 10, 2015, platforms banned by the Australian government will be required to disable all accounts of users under the age of 16 and prevent them from using the platform until they turn 16. Platforms subject to the ban include Facebook, Instagram, X, and TikTok.
Australia launches world's first 'social media ban for those under 16' law, targeting TikTok, X, Instagram, YouTube, etc. - GIGAZINE
The law has revealed that approximately 4.7 million accounts have been suspended in the first month since its implementation. Julie Inman-Grant, the eSafety Commissioner, which is promoting the law, said, 'We are very pleased with these preliminary results. It is clear that eSafety's regulatory guidance and collaboration with platforms is already delivering significant results.'
While platforms subject to the social media ban have stated that they are complying with the law, some are resisting the regulation. Meta revealed that it suspended approximately 540,000 accounts in the week before and after the law came into effect, including approximately 330,000 on Instagram, 170,000 on Facebook, and 40,000 on Threads. However, it argued that 'rather than a complete ban, the government should seek better ways, such as providing an age-appropriate online experience.' Reddit has filed a lawsuit in the Australian High Court, claiming that the law 'violates the constitutional right to free political speech.'
Reddit files lawsuit claiming 'social networking ban for those under 16' is unconstitutional - GIGAZINE
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese welcomed the move, saying, 'This measure is a source of pride for Australia. It was a world first and is now being followed around the world.'
Even after the law was enacted, some users continued to circumvent the age restrictions and use social media, but Grant pointed out, 'Over time, compliance will improve, norms will become established, and the safety benefits will increase. For example, speed limits are not a failure just because some people speed. Most people would agree that speed limits have made roads safer.' He expressed optimism that it will be some time before the long-term effects can be seen.
The eSafety Commissioner will continue to check whether platforms are complying with their obligations and taking reasonable steps.
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