Australia’s new nationwide age limit restricting children under 16 from signing up for social media platforms will now apply to two additional services: Reddit and Kick. The decision further broadens the scope of the government’s social media crackdown, which is set to take effect on December 10 and is being promoted as a first-of-its-kind global approach to protecting younger users online.
More Platforms Added to the Age-Restriction List
Communications Minister Anika Wells confirmed that Reddit, a global discussion forum platform, and Kick, a live-streaming service, will join major platforms already covered under the age rule. The existing list includes Facebook, Instagram, Threads, X (formerly Twitter), YouTube, TikTok, and Snapchat.
The ruling was formalized after the eSafety Commission reviewed which platforms primarily serve a function of facilitating social interaction—placing them within the scope of the legislation. The Commission concluded that Reddit and Kick meet this criteria, and therefore must prevent users under the age of 16 from registering accounts.
Wells shared that over the last month, the government has held conversations with major technology and social platforms to ensure they understand their obligations under the new law.
She stressed there should be “no excuse for failure” once the regulations begin.
Wells described the effort as part of the government’s broader push to reduce exposure to harmful content, pressure, and algorithm-driven influence among young users. The goal, she added, is not immediate perfection but a measurable improvement in children’s online environments.
Why Reddit and Kick Were Added
Reddit ranks among the most-visited websites globally and hosts thousands of user-driven communities discussing every imaginable topic. While its open structure encourages dialogue and information sharing, it can also expose minors to explicit or harmful content if safety controls are not strictly enforced.
Kick, meanwhile, has built a user base competing against Twitch in the live-streaming space. The platform has gained attention both for its rapid growth and for concerns regarding its moderation policies. Live chats, streaming environments, and loosely regulated interactions can pose safety risks for younger viewers.
The eSafety Commission had notified both Reddit and Kick earlier this year that they might fall under the new age limit legislation. Each was given an opportunity to argue why they should not be included. After reviewing the submissions, regulators decided both platforms qualified under the criteria.
Penalties and Preparation Ahead of the Deadline
Starting December 10, any platform on the age-restricted list must demonstrate that it is taking reasonable actions to prevent under-16 users from holding accounts. If a company fails to comply, it may face penalties of up to $49.5 million.
Some social media companies have argued that the government released its guidance too close to the deadline, making it difficult to redesign age-verification systems and user flows in time. Despite this, major platforms have told lawmakers they will meet the requirements.
At a recent Senate hearing, representatives from TikTok, Meta, and Snap confirmed that they will begin restricting access for younger teens when the law takes effect. Snap executive Jennifer Stout called Australia a “first mover” and acknowledged companies are adapting as regulations evolve. She stated the company is trying to comply within the required timeframe.
How Platforms Plan to Support Young Users Losing Access
To reduce disruption for current underage users, several platforms are working on transition tools:
- Snapchat is building a feature to allow teens to download and keep their data before their accounts are locked.
- TikTok is considering options allowing users to temporarily suspend their accounts until they are old enough to return.
- Meta is exploring similar features for Facebook and Instagram.
Minister Wells emphasized the ban is not intended to disconnect children from technology entirely but to shield them from algorithmic influence and social comparison pressure during formative years.
“There is a time and place for social media in Australia,” she said. “But there is no space for predatory algorithms, harmful content and toxic popularity meters manipulating Australian children.”
Some Platforms Not Affected
Not all online platforms are covered by the ban. Services classified primarily as messaging, gaming, education, health, or professional tools are exempt.
This means that popular platforms like Roblox and Messenger services such as WhatsApp are not subject to the age restriction. However, regulators have asked Roblox to strengthen protections, including restricting adult interactions with minors unless a parent approves.
The eSafety Commission has also flagged platforms such as Yubo and Bluesky as ones to watch, as they could become alternatives for underage users trying to bypass restrictions.
