Reddit will be included in Australia's looming under-16 social media ban

Australia is implementing a new law to ban children under 16 from accessing major social media platforms. The ban, set to begin on December 10, will now include Reddit and streaming site Kick. These join previously announced platforms like Facebook, X, Snapchat, TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram. Australia views this list as a starting point and may add other platforms such as Discord, Twitch, GitHub, and Roblox. YouTube was initially exempted due to its educational classification but was later added after protests from other companies. The legislation places the responsibility for policing underage use on the platforms themselves, not parents. Companies failing to prevent under-16 access face significant penalties, up to AU$49.5 million. Communications Minister Anika Wells emphasized the need to protect children from predatory algorithms and harmful online content. The government mandates that platforms use their technology to safeguard young users. This law aims to limit the manipulative influence of social media on Australian children.