After Australia, Which Countries Could Be Next to Ban Social Media for Children?

Governments worldwide are closely watching Australia’s move to restrict children’s access to platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Growing concerns about the mental‑health, privacy, and safety risks associated with these apps have prompted policymakers to consider similar measures in their own jurisdictions.

Why the Shift?

Recent studies link excessive social‑media use among minors to anxiety, depression, and disrupted sleep patterns. Parents, educators, and health professionals are increasingly urging authorities to act before the problem escalates.

Australia’s Pioneering Legislation

Australia’s new law requires platforms to verify the age of users and to obtain parental consent before anyone under 16 can create an account. Failure to comply could result in hefty fines and the removal of non‑compliant services from the market.

Countries Likely to Follow Suit

1. United Kingdom – The UK government has already launched a consultation on “online safety for children,” with many experts predicting a mandatory age‑verification system similar to Australia’s.

2. Canada – Provincial health agencies are urging the federal cabinet to introduce stricter age‑gating rules, citing recent spikes in teenage cyberbullying cases.

3. New Zealand – Following close ties with Australia, New Zealand’s Ministry for Children is drafting legislation that could ban under‑18 accounts on certain high‑engagement platforms.

4. Germany – Already strict about data protection, German lawmakers are debating a “digital youth protection act” that would limit social‑media usage to specific hours for minors.

5. United States – While a federal ban appears unlikely, several states (California, Texas, and Florida) are considering bills that would require parental consent for teenage accounts.

Potential Impact on Platforms

Social‑media giants may need to redesign their sign‑up processes, invest in robust age‑verification technologies, and develop new parental‑control dashboards. Non‑compliance could lead to significant financial penalties and damage to brand reputation.

What This Means for Parents and Kids

Families should prepare for tighter online safeguards. Educating children about digital literacy, setting clear usage limits, and staying informed about local regulations will become essential components of modern parenting.

Looking Ahead

If Australia’s model proves effective, it could become a blueprint for a global wave of youth‑focused internet policies. The next few years may see a reshaping of how social media operates for the youngest users, balancing connectivity with safety.