Lemon8 Age Ban Warning Sparks New Concerns in Australia
Social media apps Lemon8 and Yope are facing fresh scrutiny as Australia prepares for its under-16 age ban. The Lemon8 age ban discussion has grown quickly because both apps gained traction among young users. Many teens turned to these platforms as alternatives to sites already confirmed under the new rules.
The eSafety Commission has now advised both apps to assess whether they fall under the upcoming restrictions. In addition, the agency reminded all platforms that they must keep monitoring their features and user activity. This is important because the law covers any service that allows public posting, sharing or contact from strangers.
Some apps remain exempt. For example, platforms used mainly for private messaging, gaming, learning or health services will not be part of the age ban. However, Lemon8 and Yope include sharing tools that may place them within the new criteria.
Government signals tougher oversight
Communications Minister Anika Wells will speak at the National Press Club this week. She plans to warn that removing underage users will take time. She notes that most Australian children aged eight to fifteen already use social media. Therefore, the new “age assurance sieve” will need time to filter out existing accounts.
Ms Wells says the government expects full compliance. As a result, companies that ignore the rules may face serious consequences.
Surge in downloads raises questions
Lemon8 and Yope climbed app store charts in recent days. Lemon8 even promoted itself on TikTok as a way to avoid the new limits. Yope also saw a major spike in downloads.
According to eSafety, every platform must reassess its status under the new law. If an app meets the definition, it must prevent anyone under sixteen from having an account.
