Starting from December 10, companies such as YouTube, Instagram, Facebook and Reddit will be required to take "reasonable steps" to restrict access. YouTube has criticised the move, warning that the ban could remove key protections that currently help keep younger users safe.
The policy change follows ongoing concerns about the negative effects of online content on children. Recently, the Australian government has taken steps to implement new safety measures across digital platforms, promoting the effort as a world-first initiative. The legislation has faced criticism for being pushed through too quickly, with tech companies like YouTube saying they were given little time or opportunity to offer feedback.
YouTube stated that once the new rules take effect, underage users will be signed out of existing accounts and lose access to features such as subscriptions, playlists and content filters. Parental supervision settings will also be affected. Although YouTube Kids will not be impacted, some critics argue that children using the standard platform without accounts may encounter fewer content controls. Despite these concerns, other companies are beginning to adopt similar policies. Meta has started implementing restrictions on Instagram and Facebook.
This step is seen as the beginning of broader regulation. As more young users turn to newer platforms that are not yet subject to the ban, including photo-sharing app Yope and video platform CoverStar, changes in user behaviour are becoming clear. The eSafety Commissioner is calling on new platforms to assess whether they must meet existing requirements. However, the government acknowledges that keeping up with the fast-changing digital landscape will remain a constant challenge.
