AU Social Media Age Ban
Online Safety Amendment (Social Media Minimum Age) Act 2024
World's first social media minimum age law. Platforms must prevent under-16s from holding accounts. Implementation depends on age assurance technology.
Jurisdiction
Australia
Enacted
Pending
Effective
Dec 10, 2025
Enforcement
eSafety Commissioner
Why It Matters
Most aggressive child safety intervention globally. If successful, may prompt similar laws elsewhere. If challenged successfully, may limit regulatory options.
Recent Developments
Effective Dec 2025. Reddit launched High Court challenge. Implementation guidance and age assurance standards still developing.
At a Glance
Who Must Comply
- Social media platforms
Obligations fall on:
Applicability thresholds:
Safety Provisions
- Platforms must prevent under-16s from creating accounts
- Age assurance requirements (technology TBD)
- Enforcement discretion during rollout period
Compliance & Enforcement
Key Dates
Dec 10, 2025
Law takes effect - platforms must begin age verification processes
Penalties
A$49.5M
View on map
Australia
Focus Areas
Cite This
APA
Australia. (2025). Online Safety Amendment (Social Media Minimum Age) Act 2024.
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Last updated January 22, 2026. Verify against primary sources before relying on this information.