Australia on Wednesday became the first country in the world to ban social media bans for children under 16. The 10 biggest apps, including TikTok, Elon Musk’s X, Alphabet’s YouTube and Meta’s Instagram and Facebook, were ordered to block teenagers’ access or face fines of up to A$49.5 million ($33 million). But has Australia’s social media ban really worked?
Australia’s new social media ban has affected an estimated one million children, with many posting farewell messages on their profiles. “No more social media… no contact with the rest of the world,” wrote one teenager on TikTok.
“#seeyouwhenim16,” said another.
However, the ban only applied to the 10 largest platforms. A Bloomberg report noted that alternative social media apps have surged in popularity following Australia’s ban on social media apps.
(This is a developing story. Check back for updates)
