Meta to Block Under-16s from Instagram, Facebook, Threads ahead of Australia’s World-First Youth Social Media Ban

Meta to Block Under-16s from Instagram, Facebook, Threads ahead of Australia’s World-First Youth Social Media Ban

Meta announced on Thursday that it will begin removing under-16 users in Australia from Instagram, Threads, and Facebook, ahead of the country’s pioneering youth social media ban. Australia’s law, which also affects TikTok and YouTube, comes into effect on December 10 and requires platforms to block underage users or face fines of AUS$49.5 million (US$32 million) for failing to take “reasonable steps” to comply.

A Meta spokesperson said the company is working to remove all users believed to be under 16 by the deadline. Young users will be able to download and save their online histories, and upon turning 16, regain access with their content fully restored.

The law is expected to impact hundreds of thousands of Australian adolescents, with Instagram alone reporting roughly 350,000 users aged 13 to 15. Platforms such as Roblox, Pinterest, and WhatsApp are currently exempt, though the exemption list is under review.

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While committing to compliance, Meta urged app stores to take responsibility for age verification and parental approval at download, arguing this would reduce repeated verification across multiple apps and ensure teens remain in age-appropriate experiences.

YouTube has criticized the law, claiming it could make under-16s less safe by removing safety filters if they access the site without an account. Australia’s Communications Minister Anika Wells dismissed this as “weird,” noting that the law aims to protect teens from harmful algorithm-driven content that can negatively affect self-esteem.

The law has faced legal challenges. The Digital Freedom Project has launched a High Court case, arguing the ban infringes on freedom of speech. Authorities also anticipate attempts by teens to bypass the restrictions using fake IDs or AI tools.

Australia’s ban is drawing global attention as other countries consider similar measures. Malaysia plans to block children under 16 from social media next year, while New Zealand is preparing to introduce a similar law.

Meta to Block Under-16s from Instagram, Facebook, Threads ahead of Australia’s World-First Youth Social Media Ban