Overview
- Effective December 10, the law requires major platforms to deactivate under‑16 accounts and take “reasonable steps” to stop new ones or face fines up to A$49.5 million.
- Companies including Facebook, Instagram, Threads, TikTok, Snapchat, X, YouTube, Reddit, Twitch and Kick are covered, with several beginning account removals in the days before enforcement.
- Reddit has sued the Australian government over what it calls an intrusion on political discourse, following an earlier High Court challenge filed by two teenagers.
- Other governments are weighing similar moves, with Denmark and Norway outlining plans, Malaysia setting a 2026 start, French officials exploring restrictions, EU leaders studying options, and UK debate intensifying.
- Supporters cite evidence of mental‑health harms and say the rule gives parents leverage, while critics warn teens can evade checks or be pushed to other online spaces, and South Africa’s Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund urges caution on unintended effects.