On Wednesday, Dec. 10, 2025, Australia became the first country in the world to ban social media for children under the age of 16. Many parents support this ban, however many technology companies were not happy. Social media platforms now face the possibility of a $50 million fine if they do not block users 16 years or younger from using their platform. 

The prime minister of Australia was very happy about this law and stated that he believes that this change will make a beneficial social shift in their country, and it will encourage other countries to do the same. The intention with this ban was also to encourage children to go back to movement and creativity rather than spending countless hours scrolling on social media. Kids are not that excited about it and started a hashtag, “seeyouwhenim16”, to say goodbye to social media for the time being. 

According to Reuters, to make this ban come true, the government used research that proves how social media can harm the mental health of children including misinformation, bullying, and body image issues. Social media has been proven to be highly addicting and does not have any substantial benefits to the lives of children. However, many kids have supported this ban, and said they don’t mind waiting until 16. Hopefully in the meantime, the children will learn how to manage the potential of danger on social media before they create an account again.