Australia announces it will double the maximum penalty for social media platforms found to be failing to comply with its under-16 social media ban, raising the potential fine to A$99 million (US$68 million). The government says the restrictions, which have been in place since December 10, are still being widely evaded and that too many children remain on social media.
Officials say evasion occurs through tactics such as creating accounts registered to older people, using fake accounts, or logging in through private browsing. The government also reports that more than five million under-16 accounts have been blocked since the ban took effect, but argues that platforms’ measures are not sufficient.
The eSafety online watchdog, the eSafety Commissioner, is set to receive stronger powers to require evidence from social media companies about how they prevent under-16 users from opening accounts. The regulator will be able to demand information and documents not only from platforms but also from relevant third parties involved in age assurance or app distribution.
The move comes amid scrutiny from research and international attention, including findings described by outlets as showing substantial circumvention and limited measurable impact on teenage social media use.
