UK Maintains Distance from Australia's Social Media Ban for Under-16s

Australia has enacted a groundbreaking law prohibiting individuals under 16 from accessing major social media platforms, including TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook. The legislation, effective December 10, 2025, imposes fines up to A$49.5 million on companies failing to comply.

In contrast, the UK government has stated there are "no current plans to implement a smartphone or social media ban for children." A No. 10 spokesperson emphasized the importance of protecting children while allowing them to benefit safely from the digital world, without cutting off essential services or isolating the most vulnerable.

The UK's Online Safety Act focuses on enforcing age-based restrictions on harmful content but does not specify a minimum age for social media usage. While some MPs and the children's commissioner support a ban, major political parties, including Reform UK and the Conservative Party, are not advocating for measures similar to Australia's. A Reform UK spokesperson stated, "We believe that bans are ineffective."

Child safety organizations have also expressed reservations about the Australian model. Chris Sherwood, chief executive of the NSPCC, remarked, "We must not punish young people for the failure of tech companies to create safe experiences online." Andy Burrows of the Molly Rose Foundation argued that the Australian approach could push children toward higher-risk platforms not included in the ban.

Australia's eSafety Commissioner, Julie Inman Grant, acknowledged the complexity of the legislation but insisted on the necessity of such measures, stating, "We cannot control the ocean, but we can police the sharks." She anticipates that other countries may follow Australia's lead.

The UK's approach remains cautious, focusing on strengthening existing regulations and monitoring the outcomes of Australia's new law before considering similar actions.