Australian Government Extends Social Media Ban to YouTube for Underage Users

The Australian government has extended its social media ban to include YouTube for underage users, reversing an earlier exemption for the platform. The decision, prompted by a report from the eSafety Commissioner revealing that 37 minors had encountered harmful content on the site, will now take effect in December 2024.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese emphasized the government's commitment to safeguarding children online. Initially exempted due to its popularity in educational settings, YouTube will now face restrictions similar to Meta platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok.

The platform argues that it should not be classified as a social medium, as it is increasingly viewed as a TV platform. Critics point out that YouTube's recommendation and user interaction features mirror those of banned platforms.

The updated policy will prohibit users under 16 from creating YouTube accounts, allowing only parents or teachers to share curated content with minors. Alphabet, YouTube's parent company, has threatened legal action, echoing a similar standoff in 2021 over Australia's news media bargaining code.