Meta has begun taking down Instagram, Facebook, and Threads accounts for Australian users under 16, just before the country’s new social media law kicks in on 10 December. Around 350,000 Instagram and 150,000 Facebook accounts are expected to be affected. Teens can save their photos, videos, and messages before their accounts are deactivated, and there’s an option to verify their age if they were mistakenly flagged.
The law also affects platforms like YouTube, TikTok, Snapchat, Reddit, X, Kick, and Twitch, aiming to protect children from harmful content, cyberbullying, and online predators. Critics worry it could push teens toward smaller, less-regulated apps.
Communications Minister Anika Wells said the ban is all about protecting Generation Alpha from addictive social media algorithms and keeping kids safe online. Officials are also keeping an eye on emerging apps like Lemon8 and Yope to make sure teens aren’t slipping through the cracks.
