Australia’s social media ban preventing teens from accessing the news, research finds
Summary
A study found that Australia’s ban on social media use for under-16s has caused many teens to see less news than before. While most teens under 16 still use social media, those blocked by the ban report lower access to both local and world news, and some say they do not turn to other news sources instead.Key Facts
- Australia’s social media ban for under-16s started in December 2025.
- Two-thirds of teens under 16 continue to use social media despite the ban.
- About 26% of teens were heavily affected by the ban, and over half of these saw less news after it began.
- Social media is the second most popular way teens get news (39%), after family (52%).
- Older teens (16-17) use social media for news more (72%) than younger teens (10-12, 37%).
- Teens who see much less news say they lost access to world news (47%), local news (42%), and chances to share views (45%).
- Many teens do not use other news sources; 39% said they rely solely on social media.
- The government is investigating social media companies for compliance, with possible fines up to $49.5 million per breach.
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