Meta to Remove Users Under 16 from Social Platforms in Australia Following New Law

Meta, the US-based technology company behind Facebook, Instagram, and Threads, has announced plans to remove Australian users under the age of 16 from its social media platforms. This move comes in response to new legislation introduced by the Australian government, which prohibits individuals younger than 16 from accessing social networking sites.

Beginning in early December, Meta will start notifying users aged 13 to 15 about the impending removal of their accounts. The company has stated that deletion of these accounts will commence on December 4 and is expected to be completed by December 10, coinciding with the enforcement of the new social media restrictions.

According to data from the Australian government, approximately 350,000 Instagram users and 150,000 Facebook users in Australia fall below the age threshold. These minors will lose access to their accounts as Meta proceeds with the mandated deletions. The policy applies to Facebook, Instagram, and Threads, and is intended to comply fully with the new law.

For those users whose accounts may be mistakenly removed due to age verification errors, Meta has outlined a recovery process. Affected users can regain access by submitting a selfie video alongside official identification to verify their age and identity.

The legislation imposes significant penalties on companies that fail to adhere to the new rules, with fines reaching up to 50 million Australian dollars (approximately 27.8 million euros). However, the specific methods by which authorities will monitor and enforce compliance remain uncertain.

The Australian government has positioned the law as one of the strictest measures globally regarding youth access to social media. The objective is to protect minors from potential negative effects associated with social media use. Neighboring New Zealand is reportedly considering a similar approach, and has advised parents to limit their children's use of such platforms. Other countries, including Germany, are closely watching the implementation and outcomes of the Australian model.

Industry representatives, including Meta, have voiced concerns about the effectiveness and practicality of the new regulation. Meta criticized the law as being vague and challenging to implement, acknowledging the government's intent but expressing reservations about the consequences for youth socialization and community engagement. Experts have also questioned the feasibility of robust age verification, suggesting that the measure might serve more as a symbolic gesture rather than a fully effective deterrent.

The new law and Meta's compliance highlight an ongoing international debate over the responsibilities of technology companies in safeguarding young users online. As the deadline approaches, attention remains focused on the practical implications for both users and social media operators in Australia and potentially beyond.