Australia defends teen social media ban after study shows most still online

Australia's government is defending its pioneering ban on social media access for children under 16, facing scrutiny after a new study revealed widespread non-compliance. The landmark legislation, introduced in December 2025, aims to safeguard the mental and physical well-being of young people.

Data from the nation's internet regulator shows that over 80% of Australian teenagers continued to use social media platforms three months after the restrictions took effect. This underscores the significant challenge in enforcing the ban within a digital landscape deeply integrated into daily life. The policy, closely watched internationally, has drawn criticism from U.S.-based social media companies.

Assistant Minister for Productivity, Competition, Charities and Treasury, Andrew Leigh, acknowledged the compliance figures but argued the ban has successfully shifted the national conversation around social media's impact on children. He stated that millions of accounts have been shut down, and emphasized that complete compliance is not expected, drawing parallels to existing laws like the minimum drinking age.

However, a study by the eSafety Commissioner presented a stark picture. It found that children aged 10 to 15 were using social media with the same frequency in March as they did before the ban. Furthermore, parental awareness of their children's online activities had reportedly declined. These findings echo earlier data published by eSafety, prompting the government to consider tougher enforcement measures, including increased penalties for tech firms failing to comply.

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We've had millions of accounts shut down. We never expected that this would have 100 per cent compliance. We don’t get 100 per cent compliance out of minimum drinking age laws, but it’s still appropriate that we have that law on the books.