Australia’s internet regulator says social media platforms are not complying with under-16s ban

Australia’s internet regulator has warned that major social media platforms are failing to fully enforce the country’s ban on under-16s, introduced in late 2025. The law applies to 10 platforms including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat and YouTube, but many children still appear to have access to these platforms. In its first report since the ban, the regulator said it had identified “a number of poor practices” from the five platforms. This includes allowing users who had previously identified as under 16 to re-verify their age and remain on the platform and permitting repeated attempts to bypass age checks. The report also pointed to weak systems for preventing new underage users from signing up, as well as inadequate tools for parents and others to report children who still have access. While the policy has strong support from many parents, who say it helps them set boundaries, critics argue the ban is difficult to enforce. Some experts suggest education about online risks could be more effective and warn that restricting access may isolate vulnerable groups such as disabled teenagers who rely on online communities. The regulator has now signalled it will step up enforcement, acknowledging that meaningful change will take time and sustained pressure on tech companies. Commissioner Julie Inman Grant said, “Any cultural change that pushes against the powerful interests and revenue potential of entrenched industry players – whether car manufacturers, Big Tobacco or Big Tech. Those players will push back but we continue to push ahead.” Read more here.