Meta begins removing users under 16 from social media in Australia

Meta announced on Thursday that it has started restricting access for users under 16 in Australia across Instagram, Threads, and Facebook, ahead of the country's unprecedented social media legislation.

Australias new law requires platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok to block or remove accounts of users younger than 16 by December 10. Companies failing to take "reasonable steps" to comply could face fines up to AU$49.5 million (US$32 million).

A Meta spokesperson stated, "We are diligently working to remove all accounts we identify as under 16 by 10 December, but achieving full compliance is a complex, ongoing effort." Users under 16 will still be able to save and download their data. "Before reaching 16, users will be notified that they can regain access to their accounts, with all content restored exactly as it was," the spokesperson added.

While affirming commitment to follow the law, Meta suggested that app stores should share responsibility for age verification. "App stores should confirm age and obtain parental consent when teens under 16 download apps, reducing the need for repeated age verification across platforms," the spokesperson explained. "Verified age information could then be used to provide age-appropriate experiences."

YouTube also criticized the legislation, arguing it could make young Australians "less safe." The platform noted that under-16 users could still access content without an account but would lose safety features. The government dismissed this claim as "absurd." Communications Minister Anika Wells responded, "If YouTube highlights unsafe and age-inappropriate content on its site, that is an issue YouTube itself must address."

Analysis: Meta Moves Early on Australia's Under-16 Social Media Restrictions

Meta has proactively begun limiting access for Australian users under 16 on Instagram, Threads, and Facebook ahead of the December 10 enforcement date of the new national legislation. The law mandates that platforms either block or remove accounts of users younger than 16, with potential fines up to AU$49.5 million for non-compliance.

The company's approach involves identifying accounts under 16 and notifying users that they can regain full access once they reach the age threshold, ensuring their content remains intact. Meta also emphasizes that app stores should assist with age verification, suggesting a shared responsibility model to streamline compliance.

Criticism from YouTube highlights potential safety concerns for under-16 users, but the Australian government has rejected these arguments, framing them as the platform's internal responsibility. Meta’s early action demonstrates a cautious but structured strategy to meet legal obligations while minimizing disruption for young users.

Sources:

• Meta says starting to remove under-16s from social media in Australia