YouTube Added to Australia’s Groundbreaking Social Media Ban for Teens

In a significant move, Australia's government has updated its social media ban for teenagers, now encompassing YouTube along with several other major platforms. While teens can still view videos, they will be prohibited from having accounts, prompting a dispute with YouTube's parent company, Google.

Australia's government has taken a bold step to safeguard its youth by incorporating YouTube into its innovative social media ban aimed at those under 16. Initially, the video-sharing platform was exempt from the measure, which also includes popular networks such as TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, X, and Snapchat. Set to begin in December, the policy is a response to growing concerns over the exposure of younger audiences to harmful content.

While teens will still have access to watch YouTube videos, the directive strictly prohibits them from creating accounts, which are necessary for uploading content and interacting on the site. YouTube, owned by Google, contended that it should not be closed off to children, stating, "It's not social media," and emphasized the benefits it offers to young Australians.

This legislative move is garnering attention beyond Australian shores, with countries like Norway contemplating similar bans and the UK exploring its options. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese expressed the government’s commitment to protecting children from the detrimental effects of social media, stating, "We have their backs." He noted that while the ban isn't a comprehensive solution, it stands to make a positive impact.

The recommendation to include YouTube in the ban came last month from Australia's eSafety Commissioner, Julie Inman Grant, who highlighted it as the leading platform cited for children encountering harmful material. Following the announcement, a YouTube spokesperson indicated a willingness to explore their next steps while continuing discussions with the government.

Federal Communications Minister Anika Wells firmly supported the ban, asserting that while social media has its place, predatory algorithms aimed at children do not. She likened the struggle of keeping children safe online to teaching them to swim in treacherous seas rather than a safe pool. The government plans to reinforce this ban with penalties reaching up to A$50 million ($32.5 million) for companies failing to comply, necessitating actions such as deactivating accounts and preventing any new ones from being created.

Further details on the enforcement of this initiative are expected to be shared with the federal parliament in the coming days, as Australia seeks to set a benchmark in child safety on social media platforms.