“Starting today, Meta will notify Australian users aged 13 to 15 that they will lose access to Instagram, Threads and Facebook”announced Thursday, November 20, Meta in a press release.
“Meta will begin blocking new accounts under 16 and revoking existing access starting December 4, and plans to remove all accounts known to be under 16 on December 10”explains the text, six days before the entry into force of the law prohibiting teenagers from accessing social networks.
Although Australia has about 350,000 Instagram users and 150,000 Facebook users aged 13 to 15, according to government figures, the American group assured that teenagers would be able to access their accounts. “just as they left it” after they reach the age of 16.
The Australian parliament approved a law regarding Internet regulation in November 2024, which prohibits access to social networks, such as TikTok, X or even Facebook and Instagram, for those under 16 years old. The text calls on these platforms to take action “reasonable action” to prevent these teens from having accounts.
“We want children to have a childhood”
“Online platforms use technology to target children (…). We’re just asking them to use the same technology to keep kids safe online.”Australian Communications Minister Anika Wells told the press. “We want children to have a childhood and parents to have peace of mind”he added.
Starting December 10, Australia will force social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, to remove users under the age of 16. If violations occur, they will be subject to fines of up to nearly 28 million euros (49.5 million Australian dollars).
“We share the Australian Government’s goal of creating safe and age-appropriate online experiences, but separating young people from their friends and communities is not the solution”Meta argued.
Australia’s policy, which is one of the strictest in the world, is being scrutinized by other countries seeking to regulate access to these platforms. However, some experts believe that this rule is only symbolic, due to the difficulty of implementing concrete age verification of Internet users.
