Australia’s Social Media Ban: Tech Giants Challenge YouTube’s Exemption

Meta Platforms (owner of Facebook and Instagram), Snapchat, and TikTok have urged Australia to reconsider its decision to exempt YouTube, owned by Alphabet, from new laws banning social media access for children under 16.

The legislation, among the world’s strictest, was passed in November, requiring social media firms to block underage users or face fines of up to A$49.5 million (£24.7 million). However, YouTube has been granted an exemption as it is considered an educational tool and allows children access through a family account with parental supervision.

Meta argued that YouTube provides similar features to other social media platforms, including algorithmic content recommendations, social interaction tools, and exposure to harmful material.

Also Read: Australia’s Under-16 Social Media Ban: Google, Meta Seek Delay

 “YouTube’s exemption contradicts the rationale for the law, and we urge the government to ensure equal enforcement across all social media platforms,” Meta stated in a blog post on Wednesday.

TikTok also criticised the decision, calling it “illogical, anticompetitive, and short-sighted,” while Snapchat insisted that no single company should receive preferential treatment.

Some mental health and extremism experts have raised concerns about YouTube, stating that it exposes children to addictive and harmful content similar to other social media platforms.

In response, YouTube has defended its moderation efforts, saying it has expanded its definition of harmful content and improved automated detection systems.