What the World Should Learn from Australia’s Social Media Law

As the world struggles to regulate social media, few countries have taken as bold a step as Australia. In December 2025, the country introduced legislation restricting under-16s from accessing these platforms. The law requires companies to verify and enforce an age minimum, setting a precedent for other nations.

Australia’s comprehensive approach addresses the issue head-on. Unlike some countries that rely on users to provide their age or hope that platforms will voluntarily enforce age restrictions, Australia’s law holds companies accountable. This ensures children are protected from online harms while also pushing other countries to follow suit.

However, critics argue that the law’s impact has been modest. Studies suggest under-16 social media use has fallen only partially, with most kids still accessing these platforms in one way or another. Some claim age limits will never work and that laws like Australia’s miss the real problem of platform design.

But a closer look reveals a more encouraging picture. Several studies indicate social media use and account ownership among Australian children under 16 have declined between 9% and 40%. Parents report positive behavioral changes in their kids since the law took effect, including increased in-person social interaction and improved relationships with their children.

When evaluating Australia’s social media law, it’s essential to consider its nuanced approach to measuring success. Some studies focus on account ownership or usage, while others examine the broader impact on children’s online experiences. Age limits don’t eliminate access to social media content altogether; they aim to reduce risks associated with account-based access and data sharing.

YouTube is a prime example – a platform often accessed without an account. Even though many YouTube accounts have been revoked since the law took effect, YouTube usage by under-16s may be less affected than platforms like Snapchat, which require an account to view content. This highlights the complexity of measuring the law’s efficacy and underscores the need for a more comprehensive approach to social media regulation.

For countries considering similar legislation, Australia’s pioneering policies are not just about enforcing age limits but also addressing underlying issues driving children’s online behaviors. By setting clear guidelines and holding companies accountable, governments can create a safer digital environment for their citizens.

As more countries follow Australia’s lead – including Indonesia, Canada, Malaysia, the UAE, France, Spain, and the U.K. – progress won’t happen overnight. The law’s effectiveness will only improve over time as companies adapt and innovate in response to regulatory pressures.

The debate surrounding Australia’s social media law continues to rage on, but one thing is clear: this legislation has sparked a global conversation about the need for more comprehensive regulation of online platforms. As governments grapple with digital policy-making complexities, they would do well to take a page from Australia’s playbook – prioritizing children’s safety and well-being in an increasingly complex online landscape.