Australia's groundbreaking nationwide prohibition on social media for individuals below 16 years old is expanding, with the addition of the live-streaming service Twitch to the prohibited services. This trailblazing measure already covers platforms such as Facebook, X, TikTok, Snapchat, YouTube, and the recently added Reddit.
As reported by the BBC, eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant explained that Twitch was added due to its primary role in facilitating live broadcasts and content sharing that allows users, including children in Australia, to engage with others regarding the material.
Authorities anticipate no further additions to the list prior to the legislation's implementation next month. Grant noted on Friday that Pinterest is excluded from the restriction, given that its main function does not involve direct online social engagement.
The regulation requires social media services to implement appropriate measures to block access by minors, with significant penalties imposed for non-compliance. Although virtual private networks could offer circumvention options in certain cases, the policy establishes a substantial obstacle for those under 16 seeking entry.
Just weeks ago, Denmark revealed that its legislators achieved cross-party consensus on introducing a comparable restriction for users younger than 15, although specifics remain limited. In the United States, efforts in states like Texas and Florida to impose similar prohibitions have either been rejected or stalled in legal proceedings. Even milder regulations, such as Utah's requirement for parental approval before teenagers can create social media profiles, are encountering strong resistance based on First Amendment protections.
Public anxiety over the impact of social media on young people is intensifying amid accumulating research highlighting the possible negative consequences for the most vulnerable demographics.