Australia to double maximum penalty for platforms in breach of social media ban

Live updates

1. -2886s ago

   Australia increases penalties for social media ban breaches

   Australia is raising the maximum fine to A$99 million for platforms that allow children under 16 to use their services. X has criticized the government's information-gathering powers as invasive. A regulator also claims Telegram breached online safety laws.

   What's confirmed:

   • Australia is increasing the maximum fine for platforms breaching the under-16 social media ban to A$99 million.
   • X describes Australia's information-gathering powers as invasive.
   • An Australian regulator stated that Telegram breached online safety law.
   confidence 100%
2. 26d ago

   Australia Doubles Maximum Penalty for Social Media Ban Breaches

   Australia is increasing the maximum fine for social media platforms that breach the ban on children under 16. The penalty will rise to A$99 million. This move follows reports that many children continue to use these platforms despite the law.

   What's confirmed:

   • Australia is doubling the maximum penalty for social media ban breaches to A$99 million.
   • The social media ban applies to children under the age of 16.
   • Australia is strengthening laws to ban children from social media.
   • The ban on under-16s took effect in December 2025.

   Still unconfirmed:

   • A study found over 85% of under-16s are still using platforms after the ban.
   • Seven in 10 children remained active on Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat and TikTok three months after the ban took effect.
   • A new bill would allow the eSafety Commissioner to compel internal emails and board minutes.
   • Tech giants have been accused of taking the Mickey.
   confidence 90%