Australia Adds Reddit and Kick to Banned Social Media Platforms for Under-16s
Australia has expanded its list of social media platforms that must prohibit users under 16, adding Reddit and livestreaming platform Kick to those already included under a new law set to start next month.
Platforms Affected by the New Law
- Kick
- TikTok
- X
- Snapchat
- Threads
- YouTube
The Communications Minister, Anika Wells, described the law as a “world-first legal obligation” for platforms to prevent children under 16 from opening or maintaining accounts. Companies that do not comply could face fines up to A$50 million (about $33 million).
“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 Adjustments
Julie Inman Grant, the country's eSafety Commissioner responsible for enforcing the law, stated the list of restricted platforms will adapt as technology evolves.
“We’ll also look for unintended consequences and we’ll be gathering evidence so that others could learn from Australia’s achievements,” Inman Grant explained, highlighting ongoing studies on how the ban may impact children's sleep, social habits, and physical activity.
The initiative has attracted international attention for its pioneering approach to protecting children online.
Author's Summary
Australia's new law mandates platforms like Reddit and Kick to block users under 16, aiming to protect children with strict penalties for non-compliance and ongoing oversight.