Australia Expands Under-16 Social Media Ban to Include Twitch

Australia Adds Twitch to Nationwide Under-16 Social Media Ban

Australia has broadened its upcoming nationwide restriction on social media access for users aged 16 and under by officially adding Twitch to the list of prohibited platforms. The move comes just weeks before the law takes effect on 10 December , positioning Australia as the first country to enforce such comprehensive age-based digital limits.

Twitch Joins List of High-Risk Platforms

Regulators confirmed that Twitch will join Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat and other major platforms already marked as unsuitable for minors. The government has warned that social media companies failing to ensure compliance could face penalties of up to 49.5 million Australian dollars . Meanwhile, Pinterest has been exempted after being classified as low-risk due to its moderated, non-interactive content structure.

Live-Streaming Risks Cited as Key Concern

Authorities identified Twitch’s live-streaming ecosystem as a major safety issue. Live broadcasts allow unfiltered, real-time interaction, which officials say increases exposure to harassment, explicit material and harmful online communities. The absence of strong pre-moderation tools on spontaneous content was a core factor in the platform’s inclusion under the ban.

Part of Australia’s Larger Online Safety Reform

The restriction forms part of a broader overhaul under the Online Safety Act , which is currently being reviewed to address rising concerns over cyberbullying, grooming, excessive screen time and inappropriate content accessed by young people. While the government argues that stronger safeguards are essential for youth mental health, critics warn that blanket bans may limit creative and educational engagement.

Exam Oriented Facts

• Ban for under-16 social media users begins 10 December .

• Non-compliant platforms face fines of up to AUD 49.5 million .

• Twitch added due to risks from unfiltered live-stream interactions .

• Pinterest excluded as its content is rated low-risk .