Australia has expanded its planned under-16 social media ban to include YouTube, reversing an earlier exemption for the Alphabet-owned platform. The government says the measure, due to come into force in December, is designed to protect young users from harmful content and algorithm-driven exposure.
This shift follows a recommendation from the country’s internet regulator, which cited a survey showing that 37% of minors reported encountering harmful content on YouTube, the worst result among major platforms. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has declared that the government will prioritise the well-being of children over industry objections.
YouTube Joins Australia’s Crackdown on Social Media for Minors
The inclusion of YouTube in the ban marks a significant change in Australia’s approach to regulating online platforms. Previously, the video-sharing platform had been excluded, with officials describing it as a content library rather than a social media network. Yet, according to regulators, the platform’s recommendation algorithms and interactive features resemble those of other banned apps such as TikTok and Instagram.
Critics, including cybersecurity expert Adam Marre, argue that this is a necessary step to counter the “unchecked power of big tech” and shield young Australians from harmful online environments.
YouTube has pushed back strongly against the policy. In a statement, the company insisted it is “not social media” and stressed the age-appropriate safeguards it already provides. The platform has urged the government “to uphold the integrity of the legislative process,” warning that the decision could lead to legal disputes.
Government Defends Policy Amid Industry Backlash
Prime Minister Albanese has dismissed any suggestion that corporate pressure might influence the policy. Speaking to ABC TV, he said: “The minister will make these assessments, independent of any of these threats that’re made by the social media companies. I say to them that social media has a social responsibility. There’s no doubt that young people are being impacted adversely in their mental health by some of the engagement with social media and that is why the government has acted.”
Federal communications minister Anika Wells reinforced this position in parliament, declaring she would “not be intimidated by legal threats” from technology firms. According to the minister, a forthcoming report on age-verification technology will guide enforcement, ensuring that parents and teachers retain the ability to share YouTube videos with minors in appropriate contexts.
Industry reaction has been swift. Platforms such as TikTok, which previously criticised YouTube’s exemption as a “sweetheart deal,” have welcomed the inclusion. Meanwhile, Alphabet faces rising tension with Canberra, having previously threatened to withdraw services over regulatory disputes.
The Australian government maintains that its primary objective remains clear: protecting children from harmful online environments while sending a strong message to major technology companies about their responsibility in the digital space.
