Australia adds Reddit, Kick to social media platforms banned for under-16s

Australia Expands List of Social Media Platforms Banned for Under-16s

Australia has added Reddit and the livestreaming platform Kick to the expanding list of social media sites that must block users under the age of 16. This follows a landmark law set to come into effect next month.

Platforms Affected by the New Law

The two new platforms will join major services like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X, Snapchat, Threads, and YouTube in complying with a “world-first legal obligation” to prevent children from opening or maintaining accounts.

Penalties and Enforcement

Communications Minister Anika Wells emphasized Australia's strict stance on compliance, warning that companies could face fines up to A$50 million (about $33 million) if they fail to implement the law.

“We have met with several of the social media platforms in the past month so that they understand there is no excuse for failure to implement this law,” Wells said in Canberra. “Online platforms use technology to target children with chilling control. We are merely asking that they use that same technology to keep children safe online.”

Oversight and Future Developments

Julie Inman Grant, the country’s eSafety Commissioner, will oversee the enforcement of these regulations. She noted that the list of restricted platforms will adapt over time alongside emerging technologies.

“We’ll also look for unintended consequences and we’ll be gathering evidence so that others could learn from Australia’s achievements,” Grant said, highlighting ongoing research into the ban’s impact on children’s sleep, social behavior, and physical activity.
International Impact

This Australian initiative has attracted significant global attention for its pioneering approach to protecting minors online.

Author’s summary: Australia's groundbreaking law now requires social media platforms, including Reddit and Kick, to block users under 16, enforcing strict penalties to enhance online child safety.

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Anadolu Ajansı Anadolu Ajansı — 2025-11-06

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