Australia Expands Under 16 Social Media Ban to Include Twitch
Australia’s teen ban on social media is getting stricter as the deadline approaches. Just weeks before the rules take effect, the eSafety regulator added Twitch to the list of platforms blocked for users under 16. However, Pinterest remains exempt under the Social Media Minimum Age (SMMA) rules.
Twitch confirmed the update in a statement. The streaming platform will prevent Australians under 16 from creating new accounts after December 10. In addition, Twitch will deactivate existing accounts belonging to younger users starting January 9. Globally, Twitch allows users aged 13 and older but requires younger teens to have a guardian involved.
Pinterest did not comment on the exemption.
eSafety explained that Twitch qualifies as an age restricted platform because it centers on livestreaming and social interaction. Pinterest, however, focuses more on collecting ideas and images, so it does not fall under the same category.
The national ban will also apply to Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, X, YouTube, Reddit, and Australia’s streaming service Kick. These platforms must block access for users under 16 beginning December 10. Australia passed the law about a year ago, though companies like Meta and Google urged delays while the government tested age verification systems.
To help platforms comply, eSafety offers a self-assessment tool. This tool helps companies understand their obligations under the SMMA guidelines.
Other countries are also tightening online rules for minors. Twenty four U.S. states have passed age verification laws, and Utah now requires app stores to verify ages before minors download apps. Meanwhile, the U.K. enacted its Online Safety Act in July. The law forces platforms to block harmful content for children or face large fines. It also requires stronger age checks for high-risk material to protect users under 18.
