Australia Expands Teen Social Media Ban to Reddit, Kick

New law targets platforms enabling online interaction for users under 16.

Australia’s eSafety Commissioner has broadened the scope of its upcoming teen social media restrictions, adding Reddit and Kick to the list of platforms subject to regulation. The move is part of a wider effort to limit access for users under 16 to services primarily designed for online social interaction. Starting December 10, companies failing to take reasonable steps to block underage users may face fines of up to A$49.5 million (US$32 million). This marks a global first in regulatory enforcement targeting youth access to social media.

Criteria and Enforcement Mechanism

The law defines “age-restricted social media platforms” as services whose core function is enabling users to interact socially online. Companies are expected to assess their own platforms continuously, especially when introducing new features or shifting their primary use. The eSafety Commissioner emphasized that the list of regulated platforms will remain dynamic due to the rapid evolution of digital services. Platforms not currently included may be reassessed if their functionality changes over time.

Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, Threads, X (formerly Twitter), and YouTube are already covered under the regulation. In contrast, services like Discord, GitHub, Roblox, Steam, Google Classroom, and YouTube Kids are not considered age-restricted under current criteria. The regulator clarified that exclusion from the list does not imply a platform is entirely safe for young users. Ongoing monitoring and evaluation will guide future decisions on enforcement.

Industry Response and Implications

Tech firms are being urged to proactively evaluate whether their platforms meet the definition of age-restricted social media. The eSafety Commissioner’s statement highlights the importance of a “whole of ecosystem” approach, suggesting that responsibility extends beyond individual services. Companies that fail to comply with the new rules could face significant financial penalties, reinforcing the seriousness of the regulation. The law is expected to influence platform design and user access policies across the industry.

Australia’s approach may serve as a model for other countries considering similar legislation. By focusing on platform functionality rather than brand identity, the regulation aims to adapt to the fluid nature of online interaction. The inclusion of Reddit and Kick reflects growing concern over live-streaming and forum-based platforms among younger audiences. Industry stakeholders will likely monitor the rollout closely to assess its impact on user engagement and compliance strategies.

Broader Context and Future Outlook

The eSafety Commissioner has made clear that the list of regulated platforms will evolve alongside technological developments. Services that currently fall outside the scope may be added if their primary purpose shifts toward social interaction. This flexible framework is designed to keep pace with emerging trends in digital communication. Regulators believe that a static list would be ineffective in a rapidly changing online environment.