TikTok will block under-16s in Australia to comply with ‘upsetting’ new law

Australia’s world-first legislation banning under-16s from social media platforms and websites comes into effect on December 10

Reading Time:2 minutes

TikTok will comply with an under-16 ban in Australia on social media use. Photo: Shutterstock

Published: 5:53pm, 5 Dec 2025

TikTok said on Friday it will comply with Australia’s imminent ban on under-16s joining social media on the day it comes into force, but told users the changes “may be upsetting”.

Australia’s world-first legislation comes into effect December 10, curbing the world’s most popular social media platforms and websites, including TikTok, Instagram and YouTube.

Companies face fines of A$49.5 million (US$32 million) if they fail to take “reasonable steps” to comply.

TikTok will block under-16s in Australia on the day the law comes into effect, it said, meaning they will no longer be able to hold or create an account.

“Teens with an existing account will be notified that they will no longer be able to use their existing account, which will become inactive,” it said.

Australia’s world-first legislation comes into effect December 10, curbing the world’s most popular social media platforms and websites. Photo: TNS

“If they previously published content, it will no longer be available for others to view on TikTok.”

Select Voice

Choose your listening speed

Get through articles 2x faster

1.25x

250 WPM

Slow

Average

Fast

00:0000:00

1.25x