Australia implemented a social media ban in December 2025 prohibiting under-16s from having accounts on platforms including TikTok, X, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and Snapchat [1, 2, 3]. Despite the restrictions, about 85% of surveyed youths under 16 reported continued social media use three months later [1, 2, 3].

The University of Newcastle surveyed 408 youths aged 12 to 17 before and three months after the ban to examine its impact [1, 2, 3]. Researchers found limited implementation and substantial circumvention of the restrictions. Many under-16s bypassed the ban using fake accounts (15% of 12-13 year olds, 19% of 14-15 year olds), accounts registered to older persons, or VPNs [1]. Age verification mostly involved asking for age or uploading a selfie, with few requiring official ID photos [1].

Social media use slightly decreased among 14-15 year olds, increased for those 16 and older, and remained steady for 12-13 year olds [2, 3]. Researchers concluded, "We found insufficient evidence to conclude that exposure to the Act had any early substantial effects on social media use among adolescents aged under 16" [1]. They noted the ban might be more effective with younger children under 8 years old [1].

Australia’s Communications Minister Anika Wells said the laws themselves are not failing, but big tech companies are failing to comply. "None of this is impossible. None of this is even difficult for big tech, who are innovative billion-dollar companies," she said [2]. In March 2026, Australia officially accused Facebook, TikTok and YouTube of failing to meet their obligations under the law [2, 3]. The eSafety Commission also expressed concerns about compliance by major platforms including Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, and YouTube [2, 3].

Tech companies face fines of up to AUD 49.5 million if they do not enforce the social media age restrictions [2, 3].

The study’s findings were published on June 25, 2026, marking three months since the ban took effect [1, 2, 3]. Authorities continue to monitor tech company compliance and enforcement actions are expected to follow.