Australia has announced that it will not require social media platforms to verify the age of every user as part of its ban on under‑16s using these services. Instead, companies such as Facebook, Snapchat, TikTok and YouTube will be expected to take “reasonable steps” to prevent children from accessing their apps. The new regulations call for a “multilayered” approach to age checking, but they do not mandate universal age verification for all Australian users.
The eSafety Commission, Australia’s online regulator, acknowledges that no single solution can enforce the ban. By using a layered strategy, platforms can manage risks and minimise errors in age inference or estimation. An independent study supports this view, finding that age checking can be carried out privately, efficiently and effectively, although no one method will suit every context.
Communications Minister Anika Wells stressed that social media platforms have a responsibility to meet their obligations under the new laws. The eSafety Commission will have the power to fine non‑compliant companies up to AU$49.5 million. In addition to the under‑16 ban, the government has introduced rules to protect children from “lawful but awful” content, including online pornography and AI chatbots capable of sexually explicit conversations. The regulator has also acted to curb adult grooming of minors, with gaming giant Roblox Corp agreeing to implement protective measures on its Australian platform.
These regulations form part of a broader effort by the Australian government to regulate social media and safeguard citizens—particularly children—from online harm. The move is seen as a significant step in addressing concerns about the impact of social media on young people and is likely to be closely watched by other countries considering similar measures. With the new rules set to take effect in the coming months, social media companies will need to take proactive steps to comply and ensure the safety of their young users.
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