Australia will enforce the Online Safety Amendment (Social Media Minimum Age) Act 2024, banning users under 16 from platforms like YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, X, Threads, TikTok, Reddit, Snapchat, Kick, Twitch, Lemon8, and Yope.Meta began removing underage accounts and expects around 450,000 users will be affected, with 150,000 Facebook and 350,000 Instagram accounts at risk, while Meta and YouTube criticized the law's effectiveness and potential unintended effects.Communications Minister
Anika Wells, who warned of fines of up to $33 million for noncompliance, noted international interest and ongoing debates, while the
Digital Freedom Project seeks to delay the law in court and
Anthony Albanese voiced concerns about social media dangers.