Trending 
Meta announced on Thursday that it has started removing Australian users under 16 from Instagram, Threads, and Facebook, in anticipation of the nation’s world-first youth social media law.
The new legislation, which comes into force on 10 December, requires major online platforms—including TikTok and YouTube—to block underage users. Companies face fines of A$49.5 million (US$32 million) if they fail to take “reasonable steps” to comply.
A Meta spokesperson said the process of removing accounts would be “ongoing and multi-layered,” adding that younger users would be able to save and download their online histories. “Before you turn 16, we will notify you that you can regain access, and your content will be restored exactly as you left it,” the spokesperson said. Instagram alone has around 350,000 Australian users aged 13 to 15.
Meta expressed support for compliance but suggested that app stores should take responsibility for verifying ages and obtaining parental approval, rather than requiring teens to repeatedly prove their age across multiple platforms. YouTube also criticised the law, warning it could make Australian teens “less safe” by bypassing safety filters. Communications Minister Anika Wells dismissed this claim, highlighting the risks of algorithms that target vulnerable users and undermine self-esteem.
The law has faced legal challenges from internet rights groups, who argue it constitutes an unfair restriction on free speech. Authorities have acknowledged that determined teens may attempt to bypass the rules using fake IDs or AI to appear older, but platforms are expected to develop countermeasures.
Observers are watching closely, as Australia’s approach may influence other countries considering similar age restrictions. Malaysia has indicated plans to block under-16s from social media next year, while New Zealand is set to introduce a comparable law.
