Ep 63 - Understanding Social Media Ban for Teenagers Under 16 in Australia

From 10 December 2025, Australia's new law will require major social media platforms to prevent users under 16 from creating or keeping accounts.  This isn't a ban on the youth themselves—it means the platforms must take "reasonable steps" to enforce the age limit, or face fines up to AU$49.5 million for breaches.  Covered services include Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, X, Reddit, and YouTube among others.  While under-16s may still view publicly accessible content or use exempt apps, they won't be able to engage with full account features on age-restricted platforms.  We'll explore why this change is happening (concerns about screen time, mental health and online harm), what it means for teens, parents and platforms, and how families can prepare. Whether you're a teenager, parent, or educator, understanding this shift helps you navigate the digital world for under-16s with awareness and confidence.