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31 March, 2026, 4:24 pm
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Australia steps up enforcement of under-16 social media ban

Australia steps up enforcement of under-16 social media ban

By Nilufa Buksh
31/03/2026
Source: BBC News

Australia’s internet regulator says major social media platforms are still falling short in enforcing the country’s ban on users under 16.

eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant has raised concerns about Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat and YouTube, citing weak age verification systems and gaps that allow children to bypass restrictions.

The regulator will now move to enforcement, focusing on whether companies are taking reasonable steps to prevent underage users from accessing their platforms.

Despite the law coming into effect in December, many under-16s continue to use social media, with some able to avoid age checks.

More than 4.7 million accounts were restricted or removed in the first month of the ban.

While the policy has strong support from parents, critics say it may be difficult to enforce and could impact vulnerable groups.

The move is being closely watched by other countries considering similar laws.

Source: BBC News 

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