### Australia Implements Landmark Social Media Ban for Users Under 16 Australia is set to enforce a new law starting December 10, 2025, that prohibits users under the age of 16 from accessing major social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. This legislation mandates that companies take "reasonable steps" to identify and block underage users or face hefty fines of up to AUD 49.5 million (approximately USD 32.5 million) [https://vygrnews.com/tech/meta-and-tiktok-to-comply-with-australia’s-under-16-social-media-ban]. Despite their opposition to the ban, tech giants Meta and TikTok have agreed to comply with the law, acknowledging the challenges of enforcement [https://www.republicworld.com/tech/meta-tiktok-and-snap-say-they-oppose-australias-teen-social-media-ban-but-will-comply-with-it]. ### Structure of the Response 1. **Overview of the Law** - Description of the new Australian law banning under-16s from social media. - Compliance from major platforms despite concerns about enforcement. 2. **Challenges and Concerns** - Discussion of the difficulties in enforcing the age restriction. - Potential unintended consequences, such as pushing youth to less regulated online spaces. 3. **Responses from Tech Companies** - Details on how Meta and TikTok plan to manage underage accounts. - The number of accounts affected and the methods for compliance. 4. **Broader Implications** - Examination of the law's impact on youth mental health and social connections. - Perspectives from supporters and critics regarding the effectiveness of the ban. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Compliance Plans**: - Meta will contact approximately **450,000** underage accounts on Instagram and Facebook in Australia, offering options to delete or retain data until they turn 16 [https://vygrnews.com/tech/meta-and-tiktok-to-comply-with-australia’s-under-16-social-media-ban]. - TikTok estimates around **200,000** underage accounts, while Snap has about **440,000** [https://vygrnews.com/tech/meta-and-tiktok-to-comply-with-australia’s-under-16-social-media-ban]. - **Potential Fines**: - Companies face fines of up to **AUD 49.5 million** for non-compliance [https://www.storyboard18.com/digital/social-media-giants-to-bow-to-australian-youth-ban-despite-opposition-83278.htm]. - **Youth Impact**: - Supporters argue the ban will protect children from harmful content, while critics warn it may isolate teens who rely on social media for connection [https://vygrnews.com/tech/meta-and-tiktok-to-comply-with-australia’s-under-16-social-media-ban]. ### Summary of Findings 1. **New Legislation**: Australia is implementing a strict social media ban for users under 16, effective December 10, 2025, requiring platforms to block underage users or face significant fines [https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/australianz/meta-and-tiktok-to-obey-australia-under-16-social-media-ban]. 2. **Compliance Despite Opposition**: Major tech companies, including Meta and TikTok, have agreed to comply with the law, although they express concerns about its enforceability and potential negative consequences for youth [https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/business/2025/10/28/meta-tiktok-to-obey-australias-under-16-social-media-ban]. 3. **Implementation Challenges**: The law poses significant challenges in enforcement, with companies planning to deactivate millions of accounts while facing criticism regarding the effectiveness of such measures [https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/meta-snapchat-tiktok-oppose-australias-social-media-ban-but-agree-to-comply-to-new-rules-101761628211163.html]. 4. **Ongoing Debate**: The law reflects a growing global focus on protecting children's mental health online, but it raises questions about the balance between safety and digital freedom, highlighting the complexities of regulating youth engagement in the digital age [https://english.mathrubhumi.com/news/world/meta-tiktok-comply-australia-under-16-social-media-ban-n5euxvr3].