A growing number of countries are considering banning social media access for users under 16, but a recent study suggests the effectiveness of such measures remains uncertain.
Molly Rose Foundation published a survey based on responses from 1,050 Australian children aged 12 to 15 in March. The findings show that 61% of children who previously had access to restricted social media platforms still maintain at least one active account.
Australia introduced a nationwide ban on social media use for individuals under 16 starting December 10, making it the first country to implement such a policy. However, the study found no clear evidence that the restriction has improved or worsened children’s well-being since it took effect.
The report also noted that 70% of children attempting to access restricted platforms said bypassing the ban was easy.
Andy Burrows, CEO of the Molly Rose Foundation, said the findings raise concerns about the policy’s impact. He added that the results suggest it would be risky for the UK to adopt a similar approach at this stage.
Separately, the Australian government released its own report in March assessing how social media companies are complying with the restrictions. According to the findings, platforms including Snap, TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube are under investigation for possible non-compliance.
The report stated that Australia’s eSafety agency is in the process of finalizing these investigations and plans to decide on enforcement actions by mid-2026.
Under existing rules, the eSafety authority has the power to issue infringement notices, seek court-ordered injunctions, and impose civil penalties of up to $35 million.
