Australia has become the first country to ban social media use for anyone under 16.
On Wednesday morning, teens across the country woke up logged out of TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, X, YouTube, Threads, Reddit, Kick, and Twitch — all automatically deactivated under the new law.
The ban aims to curb cyberbullying, addictive scrolling, harmful algorithms, and protect cultural wellbeing. Any platform that lets a minor under 16 access the service risks fines of up to A$49.5 million.
The government judged platforms based on whether they allow social interaction, user-to-user engagement, and posting content. Because of this, YouTube Kids, Google Classroom, and WhatsApp are not included in the ban.
Officials say the move will reduce screen addiction and protect the mental health of young people.
