The world-first legislation, which takes effect on December 10, restricts children below 16 from joining major platforms including TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube. Companies that fail to take “reasonable steps” to comply risk fines of up to A$49.5 million (US$32 million).
Gatekeepers News reports that in a statement on Friday, TikTok said it will block all Australian users under 16 once the law comes into force. This means affected teens will no longer be able to create or maintain accounts.
“Teens with an existing account will be notified that they will no longer be able to use their existing account, which will become inactive,” TikTok said. “If they previously published content, it will no longer be available for others to view on TikTok.”
Young users who are locked out will be able to appeal their age verification, using methods such as facial images, credit card authorisation, or official identification. TikTok added, “We understand that these changes may be upsetting, but they are necessary to ensure that TikTok complies with Australian law.”
Under the new rules, teens will have the option to confirm their age, download their data, delete their account, or set a reminder to recover their account when they turn 16. TikTok also encouraged parents to “have conversations” with their children to ensure they provide accurate age information.
Communications Minister Anika Wells defended the legislation, revealing that some Australian teens had died by suicide after social media algorithms “latched on” and pushed harmful content that eroded their self-esteem.
“This specific law will not fix every harm occurring on the internet, but it will make it easier for kids to chase a better version of themselves,” Wells said.
However, the ban faces opposition. The Digital Freedom Project has filed a High Court challenge, arguing the law is an “unfair” attack on free speech.
Australia’s move has drawn global attention as governments try to manage social media risks. Malaysia has signaled plans to introduce a similar restriction next year, while New Zealand is preparing its own version of the under-16 ban.
