Gangtok, Nov. 22 -- Australia is set to enforce a nationwide social media age restriction beginning 10 December 2025, preventing anyone under the age of 16 from creating or maintaining accounts on major platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, Snapchat, X, and Facebook. The restriction is part of the Online Safety Amendment (Social Media Minimum Age) Bill 2024, which was passed on 28 November 2024.

Unlike traditional penalties, the law does not target children or families. Instead, social media companies will be responsible for blocking underage users. Failure to do so may result in fines of up to $50 million. The goal of the regulation is to enhance online safety and reduce exposure to harm, including cyberbullying, predators, and...