This follows a consultation where ~90% of parents reportedly supported action. The policy includes age verification requirements (e.g., facial scans or ID), fines for non-compliant platforms, restrictions on features like disappearing messages/livestreaming/stranger chats (even on non-banned apps), and a curfew on scrolling for 16-17 year olds after ~8:30pm.
Reported Blocked Platforms for Under-16s
The commonly cited list (matching Australia’s banned platforms, per multiple reports) includes:
- TikTok
- YouTube
- Snapchat
- X (formerly Twitter)
- Twitch
- Kick
- Threads
Note: Bluesky is reportedly not on the list (due to its smaller size), which has drawn criticism and memes about political favoritism.
This is based on announcements and leaks reported today (June 15, 2026) and recent days. Exact details and implementation timeline may still be finalized by ministers.
Context and Challenges
- Enforcement: Platforms must block under-16s or face large fines. Age verification tech is key but raises privacy concerns. Australia’s similar ban (in place since late 2025) has seen mixed results—many teens bypass it via VPNs or weak verification.
- Scope: Gaming apps and “safer” tools aren’t fully banned but get feature restrictions. AI chatbots (e.g., romantic/sexual ones) are also targeted.
- Reactions: Supported by many parents concerned about harms, but critics call it overreach, hard to enforce, or potentially driving kids to unregulated spaces.
