Australia to double fines for platforms violating age limits

The Australian government is set to significantly increase penalties for social media platforms that fail to enforce age restrictions, particularly for users under 16. A new bill is being prepared to strengthen the country's social media ban and impose harsher sanctions on technology companies.

Under the proposed changes, the powers of the eSafety Commissioner, Julie Inman Grant, will be expanded. She will be authorized to demand proof from social media companies regarding the measures they employ to prevent underage users from accessing their platforms. Third-party companies providing age verification services will also be obligated to share information.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese highlighted that since December 2025, social media platforms have been required to take "reasonable steps" to prevent individuals under 16 from opening or using existing accounts. However, he stated that major technology companies have not demonstrated sufficient effort in complying with this law. Albanese noted that too many children are still using social media, leading to the decision to double the maximum fine for non-compliant companies from AU$49.5 million to AU$99 million.

According to government figures, since the regulation took effect, over 5 million accounts belonging to users under 16 have been removed, disabled, or restricted. The Australian legislation, which came into force on December 10, 2025, targets platforms including X, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, YouTube, Snapchat, Reddit, Twitch, Threads, and Kick. The government's objective is to mitigate the negative impact of algorithms and harmful content on children and young people.