Australia bans under-16s from Reddit and Kick in social media crackdown

Australia has expanded its social media age restrictions to include Reddit and livestreaming service Kick, requiring both platforms to prohibit users under 16 from creating or maintaining accounts. Starting December 10, the two platforms will join major social media services including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X, Snapchat, Threads, and YouTube in complying with what officials describe as a "world-first legal obligation" to protect minors online.

Enforcement and Penalties

Communications Minister Anika Wells announced that companies failing to implement the age verification systems could face substantial penalties reaching A$50 million (approximately $33 million). Wells emphasized that platform operators have received comprehensive briefings about the new requirements, stating "there is no excuse for failure to implement this law" given the technological capabilities already employed by these companies for targeted advertising and content delivery.

Implementation and Monitoring

Australia's eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant will oversee enforcement of the new regulations, noting that the list of restricted platforms will continue evolving alongside emerging technologies. The commissioner's office will monitor potential unintended consequences and gather evidence regarding the ban's effects on children's sleep patterns, social development, and physical activity levels, creating a research base for other nations considering similar measures.

International Reaction and Privacy Concerns

The Australian initiative has attracted international attention, with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen previously expressing admiration for Australia's "common sense" approach to online child protection. However, the policy has drawn criticism from over 140 academic experts who warn that age verification requirements could compromise user privacy through extensive data collection. Minister Wells has countered that the government aims to maintain personal data "as private as possible" while ensuring child safety.