The Australian government is preparing to extend its social media restrictions by banning YouTube access for users under the age of 16. Previously, platforms like TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter) had already been placed under similar age-based restrictions, but YouTube had remained an exception—until now.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced on Wednesday that the move is aimed at protecting children from harmful content online. “We want to safeguard our children. This decision is part of our effort to combat dangerous content,” he said.
Australia’s national internet regulator cited a recent survey that found up to 37% of children had encountered harmful content on YouTube, prompting the inclusion of the platform in the age restriction policy.
Communications Minister Anika Wells stated that while social media has its place, it should not be driven by “predatory algorithms” targeting children. She emphasized, “Children should be allowed to grow and develop before platforms begin shaping perceptions about them.”
YouTube, owned by Google’s parent company Alphabet Inc., has pushed back against the decision. The company argued that YouTube is not a social media platform but rather a video-sharing service offering free access to educational and entertainment content.
Under legislation passed in November 2024, children under 16 were already barred from using four major social media platforms in Australia. With YouTube now added to the list, the scope of the ban has expanded further.
Source: Shafaq News
