What Australia’s YouTube ban for kids means for parents and schools

The Australian government has decided to include YouTube in its ban on social media platforms for users under 16. The change follows growing concern that the platform, despite being widely used for education and entertainment, is exposing children to harmful content more than any other site.

Until recently, YouTube had been exempt from the restrictions due to its role in schools and its classification as a video-sharing platform rather than a social media network. However, new advice from eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant led the government to revise its position.

Starting December 10, children under 16 will no longer be allowed to create or manage YouTube accounts. Watching content will still be allowed if it is age-appropriate or used in educational settings through school-approved accounts. The same rule will apply to Snapchat, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and other platforms already under the restriction.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the decision is aimed at reducing social harm. “There is no doubt that Australian kids are being negatively impacted by online platforms. I want Australian parents to know that we have their backs,” he said.

YouTube has responded, saying it shares the goal of reducing online harm but maintains that it is not a social media platform. A spokesperson explained that YouTube functions mainly as a video-sharing site and is increasingly watched on TV screens rather than phones. The company said it will continue to speak with the government and consider its next steps.

Some educators and parents rely heavily on YouTube for school-related material. The platform remains a key tool for teachers, who will still be able to use it within approved systems.

Under the law, any company that fails to prevent underage account creation can face fines of up to 49.5 million Australian dollars. The government passed the legislation in late 2024, but YouTube was not included until now.

There are concerns about how effective the new rules will be. A government-commissioned trial earlier this year showed that no single method of verifying age is foolproof. Critics also warn that children in remote or rural areas, who often use the internet to connect with others and find support, may be unfairly affected.

Communications Minister Anika Wells acknowledged that there is no perfect solution. However, she said the rules will help protect children from the influence of persuasive and addictive online platforms.

The final report from the age assurance technology trial is expected later in 2025.