YouTube Slams Australia’s Under-16 Social Media Ban, Calls Law ‘Rushed’ and Risky for Children

YouTube has hit out at Australia’s new law banning children under 16 from social media. The law starts on December 10. It affects Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. Rachel Lord, YouTube’s public policy manager, said the law was “rushed.” She warned it could make children less safe online. Parents and teachers have also voiced concerns. They say the law may block useful content while not tackling real dangers.

YouTube was initially exempt so kids could access educational videos. The government changed that in July. Officials said children needed protection from “predatory algorithms.” Kids can still visit YouTube without an account. But they will lose access to safety filters, parental controls, and wellbeing settings. Lord said the law misunderstands how young Australians use YouTube. She stressed that the platform focuses on guiding children safely online, not removing them from the digital world.

YouTube will archive accounts for affected users. Children can regain full access at 16. No content or data will be deleted. Communications Minister Anika Wells called YouTube’s criticism “outright weird.” She said the law is needed to protect minors. Platforms that ignore it face fines of up to Aus$49.5 million (US$32 million). Meta, Facebook’s parent, has already started deactivating accounts based on ages given at sign-up.

The law has sparked debate in Australia. Internet rights groups are challenging it in the High Court. They say it unfairly restricts free speech and limits access to educational content. Supporters say it is vital to protect children from online harm. As December 10 approaches, platforms, parents and teachers are preparing. The law highlights the challenge of keeping children safe online while protecting their access to information.