What the Australian under-16 YouTube ban means | The IndependentNotifications can be managed in browser preferences.Jump to contentIndependentNext articleIndependent Bulletin homepageSocial PartnerWe are 8 logo (opens in a new tab)AllNewsSportCultureLifestyleMaroosha MuzaffarWednesday 30 July 2025 10:43 BSTAustralia approves social media ban on under-16sAustralia has announced it will include YouTube in its ban on social media access for teenagers, reversing an earlier exemption.The ban, set to commence in December, aims to protect minors from harmful content and algorithm-driven exposure, following a survey indicating high rates of harmful content on YouTube.Prime Minister Anthony Albanese affirmed the government's commitment to child safety online, stating they would not be swayed by threats from social media companies.YouTube maintains it is a video-sharing platform, not social media, and has urged the Australian government to reconsider its decision.The move reflects increasing concerns over AI-driven misinformation and the unchecked power of large technology firms, with the Federal Communications Minister vowing not to be intimidated by legal challenges.In fullAustralia adds YouTube to platforms covered by world-first ban on social media for teenagersThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in