Australia Imposes Ban on YouTube in Teen Social Media Regulations

Australia will now include YouTube in its pioneering ban targeting social media for teenagers. The decision follows findings that 37% of children aged 10 to 15 encountered harmful content there. Other platforms argued against YouTube's exemption, emphasizing a unified approach to safeguard youth online.

Australia has announced a significant policy shift by including Alphabet-owned YouTube in its groundbreaking ban on social media platforms accessible to teenagers. The decision follows the internet watchdog's findings, which highlighted that 37% of children aged 10 to 15 reported encountering harmful content on YouTube, outpacing other social media sites.

Meta platforms such as Facebook and Instagram, alongside Snapchat and TikTok, previously contended that it was unjust to exempt YouTube. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese emphasized the social responsibility of these platforms, citing the negative impact on Australian youth, and asserted the government's commitment to protect children online.

From December, social media companies will face fines up to A$49.5 million if they breach the newly passed law. A YouTube spokesperson responded, emphasizing the platform's distinct nature from traditional social media and pledged ongoing dialogue with the government. Notably, online gaming, messaging apps, and specific educational sites are exempt from the recent rules.

(With inputs from agencies.)