Regulator data shows more than 80 percent of teens still use social platforms three months after the ban, raising doubts about enforcement and parental oversight.
Australia defends the world’s precedent-setting ban on children under 16 using social networks, introduced by the government in December, despite fresh data highlighting the scale of the challenges this policy faces.
According to the online platforms regulator, more than 80% of Australian teenagers are still using social networks three months after the restrictions took effect, underscoring the difficulties of regulating a digital environment embedded in everyday life.
The ban, which has drawn international attention, was introduced in December amid concerns about the impact of social networks on children’s mental and physical health. It has faced criticism from social media companies, mostly American.
In light of the regulator’s findings, Andrew Leigh, Assistant Minister for Productivity, Competition, Charities and the Treasury, stated that the ban has already changed the national conversation.
We have shut down millions of accounts. We never expected 100% compliance. We do not expect 100% compliance with the laws on the minimum age for drinking alcohol, but it is still appropriate that such a law exists.
– Andrew Leigh
eSafety study and government response
eSafety’s study also paints a troubling picture: children aged 10–15 continue to use social networks as frequently in March as they did before the ban took effect on December 10, while parents’ awareness of their online behavior has declined.
The results align with earlier data released by eSafety in March, three months before the Labour government announced plans to tighten the measures, including doubling the maximum fines for tech companies that fail to comply with the ban.
Next steps and implications
The government vigorously defends the policy, describing it as a key step in protecting the younger generation in the digital environment. At the same time, experts and regulators continue to monitor the effectiveness of the restrictions and seek ways to strengthen accountability for large tech companies for their compliance.
While the data show the difficulty of achieving full compliance, the government is committed to working toward a better balance between protecting children online and enabling families and teenagers to stay safe in the digital world.
