Australia to Enforce 16+ Minimum Age for Social Media from Next Week — Platforms Face Up to $33M Fines

Australia will enforce a minimum social‑media age of 16 starting next week. Platforms that fail to comply could face fines up to $33 million. The move is designed to strengthen age verification and protect younger users from online risks. Companies should review sign‑up flows and compliance measures now.

11:15 AM, 12/03/2025Technology

Australia will begin enforcing a minimum age of 16 for social‑media accounts from next week, as regulators move to tighten protections for younger users. Platforms that permit under‑16s to create accounts or fail to meet new compliance requirements could face penalties of up to $33 million.

The enforcement will require social platforms to bolster age verification systems, improve compliance processes, and be able to demonstrate how they prevent underage access. Regulators are expected to issue guidance on acceptable verification methods, but companies should start reviewing sign‑up flows and safeguards now.

Officials say the change aims to reduce young people’s exposure to harmful content, inappropriate advertising and other online risks. For users and families, the shift may mean additional verification steps when creating accounts and clearer account‑age controls.

What to expect: updated registration and verification processes on major platforms, regulatory guidance on enforcement standards, and potential fines or follow‑up action for firms that do not comply.

If you manage a social platform or advise users, review privacy policies and technical controls immediately to avoid penalties when enforcement begins.

Australia to Enforce 16+ Minimum Age for Social Media from Next Week — Platforms Face Up to $33M Fines

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