Australia has passed a law preventing children under 16 from using social media platforms.

The legislation, effective November 2025, aims to address concerns over the impact of social media on young users’ well-being.

Both the conservative opposition and the center-left government support the measure.

Social media companies must use age verification processes to adhere to the new rules. Failure to comply could lead to fines of up to US$32 million.

Proposed delays from companies like Google and Meta were dismissed.

An amendment ensures platforms cannot require sensitive personal information, such as passports or digital IDs, for age verification.