Reddit and Kick to Be Added to Australia's Social Media Ban for Under-16s
Starting December 10, Australia will enforce a new law restricting social media access for users under 16. Platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and now Reddit and Kick must remove underage users or face penalties of up to Aus$49.5 million (US$32 million).
Government’s View and Motivation
Minister for Communications Anika Wells announced the inclusion of the popular forum Reddit and streaming platform Kick in the upcoming restrictions. She emphasized that platforms already use advanced technology to influence young users and should instead use it to protect them.
“Online platforms use technology to target children with chilling control,” Wells said. “We are merely asking they use that same technology to keep children safe online. We want children to have a childhood and we want parents to have peace of mind.”
Scope and International Impact
The law has drawn global attention due to its stringent measures. Many are watching to see whether such broad restrictions can succeed where others have failed. Experts caution that the legislation might end up being largely symbolic.
Other Platforms and Future Changes
Currently, services like Roblox, Discord, and WhatsApp are not included in the ban, though Twitch is under review. Wells noted that the banned list remains open to future updates as the government continues to evaluate emerging risks.
Expert Opinion
eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant remarked that while age restrictions were one “really potent solution” for curbing online harm, they were not a complete or immediate fix.
Author’s summary: Australia expands its strict online safety rules to include Reddit and Kick, aiming to protect minors while raising questions about enforcement and global precedent.