Australia will extend its world-first social media ban for teenagers to include YouTube, reversing an earlier exemption for the Alphabet-owned platform. The decision follows recommendations from the country’s internet regulator, which cited a survey revealing 37% of minors encountered harmful content on YouTube.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese emphasized the government’s commitment to protecting children, stating, “Social media have a social responsibility, and Australian kids are being negatively impacted by online platforms. I want Australian parents to know we have their backs.”
Set to take effect in December, the expanded ban now covers YouTube alongside Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok. YouTube argues it should not be classified as social media, claiming its primary function is video sharing rather than social networking. The platform is particularly popular among teens, with nearly three-quarters of Australians aged 13 to 15 using it.
Critics note YouTube’s similarity to other banned platforms, citing algorithm-driven recommendations and interactive features. Cybersecurity experts, including Arctic Wolf’s Adam Marre, have highlighted the role of artificial intelligence in spreading misinformation, supporting stricter regulation of online platforms.
The move risks reigniting tensions between the Australian government and Alphabet, which previously threatened to withdraw Google services from the country over laws requiring payments to news publishers. Local media reports suggest YouTube may consider legal action, though the company has not confirmed this.
Under the law, platforms must take “reasonable steps” to prevent users under 16 from accessing their services or face fines up to A$49.5 million. The government is awaiting results from ongoing age-verification tests to guide enforcement strategies.
The decision signals Australia’s growing push to hold big tech accountable for youth safety and online content regulation.