Australia has moved to tighten enforcement of its under-16 social media restrictions by doubling the maximum fine for platforms that allow children to keep or create accounts.
The government had introduced the ban on December 10 last year, covering 10 major services including Facebook, Instagram, Kik, Reddit, Snapchat, Threads, X, YouTube and Twitch. Under the earlier penalty framework, companies faced fines of up to Rs 322 crore (A$49.5 million) if under-16 accounts were found on their platforms.
Following the law’s rollout, platforms reportedly removed more than 5 million accounts identified as belonging to children. However, six months on, complaints persisted that minors were still logging in secretly to watch reels and chat.
A subsequent assessment found that 85% of children aged 12 to 15 continued to use social media by bypassing the restrictions. In response, Australia has increased the maximum penalty to Rs 644 crore (A$99 million) for companies that fail to prevent underage access.
Communications Minister Anika Wells said tech firms were complying only in name and that large companies must act more responsibly. The tougher stance is also being watched abroad, with countries such as the UK and Canada considering stronger online controls for those under 16.
