Australia’s eSafety Commissioner announced that platforms such as WhatsApp, Reddit, Twitch, and Roblox may participate in a world-first social media ban for users under 16 years old. The ban already covers Facebook, Snapchat, TikTok, and YouTube.
Commissioner Julie Inman Grant contacted 16 additional companies, including Pinterest, Lego Play, Kick, and Steam, to assess if they fall under the ban. Companies must justify exemptions. Inman Grant told ABC, “We’ll hear them out, but focus on high-risk platforms first.”
The eSafety Commission can fine non-compliant companies up to $49.5 million (AUD). However, the law lacks clear enforcement details, raising concerns that it may be symbolic. Communications Minister Anika Wells said firms must self-regulate their age verification processes.
WhatsApp, Twitch among sites that could face Australia under-16s social media ban.
Platforms such as Facebook, Snapchat, TikTok and YouTube are already included in the ban — a world-firsthttps://t.co/pyD3deupnK pic.twitter.com/UpRmf8DpSz
— AFP News Agency (@AFP) September 24, 2025An independent study found age checks can be “private and effective” but not universal. Social media firms call the rules “vague” and “rushed.” Canberra struggles to define how platforms verify user ages.
New rules starting soon will shield kids from harmful content, like online pornography and explicit AI chatbots. Roblox recently agreed to curb grooming risks on its platform in Australia.
Read: Australia’s 2025 Teen Social Media Ban Faces Challenges with Selfie Age Verification
Australia leads global efforts to protect kids online. The ban aims to reduce harm but faces challenges in enforcement. It could set a precedent for other countries tackling social media risks.
Australia’s under-16 social media ban may be expanded to include platforms such as WhatsApp and Reddit. With hefty fines and new protections, the eSafety Commissioner pushes for safer digital spaces.
