TikTok has confirmed it will enforce Australia’s new law banning children under 16 from using social media platforms when it comes into effect on 10 December, warning that the changes “may be upsetting” for some users.
The legislation, the first of its kind in the world, applies to major platforms including TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube. Companies that fail to implement the rules face fines of up to €27 million.
Under the new rules, Australian children under 16 will be blocked from creating accounts on TikTok, and existing accounts will be deactivated. Content previously published by these users will no longer be visible to others on the platform.
TikTok said affected users can appeal the restriction by proving their age using facial recognition, credit card verification, or official identification. The platform also allows teens to download their information, delete their accounts, or request reminders to regain access once they reach 16. TikTok encouraged parents to discuss the rules with their children to ensure they provide accurate information.
Communications Minister Anika Wells defended the legislation, citing cases in which Australian teenagers had taken their own lives after social media algorithms promoted content that negatively affected their self-esteem. “This specific law will not fix every harm occurring on the internet, but it will make it easier for kids to chase a better version of themselves,” Wells said.
The ban has already faced legal opposition. The Digital Freedom Project filed a challenge in Australia’s High Court, describing the law as an “unfair” infringement on freedom of speech.
Australia’s move has attracted global attention, with several other countries considering similar restrictions. Malaysia has announced plans to block under-16s from signing up for social media next year, and New Zealand is introducing a comparable measure.
International cooperation on online safety is also advancing. Ireland’s media regulator, Coimisiún na Meán, recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Australia’s eSafety Commissioner. The agreement will facilitate the exchange of information, data, and best practices to improve digital regulation and online safety.
The Australian ban represents a significant shift in how regulators address the potential harms of social media for young users. While some experts caution that the law cannot eliminate all risks, authorities and platforms alike are taking steps to ensure children are protected online.
