“These measures are being introduced for parents who seek stronger online protection for their children. We aim for kids to know their identity before platforms shape it for them.”

Communications Minister Anika Wells said the government is putting parents ahead of platforms. Source: AAP / Mick Tsikas

How will the ban work?

Wells specified four “reasonable steps,” including disabling current accounts, preventing new account creation, implementing preventive measures, and fixing mistakes.

For users over the age of 16, Wells said the government is awaiting the final recommendations from its age assurance trial.

Which platforms will be included in the ban?

Inman Grant explained that the decision stems from research by eSafety, revealing that YouTube is the most accessed social media platform by young Australians and also the site where they face most online risks.

Unlike many of the other platforms included in the ban, YouTube doesn’t require users to have an account or be logged in to access content.

“All services classified as age-restricted social media platforms, unless explicitly exempted by the rules, will need to comply with the social media minimum age legislation.”

When will the ban come into effect?

“As parents, managing the internet can feel daunting, akin to teaching your children to swim in an open ocean filled with rips and sharks, rather than a controlled local pool. We can’t tame the ocean, but we can manage the sharks,” Wells remarked.

“That’s why we will not be intimidated by legal threats when this is a genuine fight for the wellbeing of Australian kids.”

How have social media platforms responded?