Australia Under-16 Social Media Ban: Fines May Double To A$99 Million

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MDT News Desk August 14, 2026

Australia's Under-16 Social Media Ban Faces Scrutiny Amid Calls for Stricter Enforcement

The Australian government’s under-16 social media ban is facing scrutiny as top social media platforms, including Google, Meta, Snapchat, and TikTok, urge caution on early data showing most children still use their products despite the ban. The ban, which took effect in December, has seen some 80% of minors still accessing social media platforms, according to data from Australia’s internet regulator.

This has led to a divide between lawmakers and big tech, with the eSafety Commissioner, Julie Inman Grant, considering legal action against some platforms for allegedly slow-walking compliance. The Commissioner has stated that while there are early signs of the ban working, with a modest decline in underage accounts, more time is needed to assess its effectiveness. Lawmakers are now weighing amendments that would double maximum penalties to A$99 million and expand the commissioner’s powers to compel information and documents from platforms during investigations.

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The Senate inquiry into the ban has highlighted the need for stricter enforcement, with the eSafety Commissioner pushing for greater powers to investigate and penalize non-compliant platforms. The proposed amendments would give the commissioner the ability to compel information and documents from platforms and their third-party age assurance providers, allowing for more effective enforcement of the ban.

For social media companies, the potential doubling of fines to A$99 million is a significant concern, with many arguing that the ban is still in its early stages and that more time is needed to assess its effectiveness. However, for lawmakers, the high rate of minor usage despite the ban is a clear indication that stricter enforcement is needed to protect children from the potential harms of social media.

The outcome of the Senate inquiry and the proposed amendments will be closely watched by both the tech industry and lawmakers, as it will have significant implications for the enforcement of the under-16 social media ban and the regulation of social media platforms in Australia.

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Proposed Penalty	Amount
Maximum fine for non-compliance	A$99 million

💡 Quick FAQ & IntelligenceTap to Expand

Q: What is the current fine for non-compliance with the under-16 social media ban in Australia?

The current maximum fine is A$49.5 million, but lawmakers are considering doubling it to A$99 million.

Q: What percentage of minors are still accessing social media platforms despite the ban?

According to data from Australia's internet regulator, around 80% of minors are still accessing social media platforms.

Q: What powers is the eSafety Commissioner seeking to compel information and documents from social media platforms?

The commissioner is seeking the power to compel information and documents from platforms and their third-party age assurance providers during investigations, allowing for more effective enforcement of the ban.