Australia Expands Teen Social Media Ban to Include YouTube

Australia has tightened its social media restrictions for minors, announcing that YouTube will be banned for children under 16 starting December 2025. This decision marks a significant reversal of a previous exemption for the video-sharing platform, now grouping it with other sites like TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat, and Facebook. 

The eSafety Commissioner urged the government to include YouTube after a survey revealed that 37% of minors had encountered harmful content on the site– the highest figure among all platforms surveyed. 
 
Additionally, around 68% of 10 to 12-year-olds were found to engage with YouTube. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese asserted he was "calling time on it," highlighting the negative impact online platforms have on children. Platforms failing to take "reasonable steps" to prevent underage access face substantial fines of up to $49.5 million.

YouTube, in response, argues it is a "video sharing platform" with a library of content, not a social media site, and that nearly three-quarters of Australian teens aged 13-15 rely on it. However, critics dismiss this distinction, noting YouTube's algorithm-driven recommendations and interactive features make it comparable to other social networks. 

The Australian Primary Principals Association has supported the ban, stating teachers can effectively manage content in schools. Reports suggest YouTube may be preparing a court challenge, setting the stage for a potential standoff with its parent company, Alphabet.