YouTube will now be part of Australia’s new social media ban for children under 16, starting in December this year.
Previously exempt, the video-sharing platform – owned by Google – will join TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, and X under strict restrictions.
Teenagers will still be allowed to watch YouTube videos, but cannot hold accounts to post content or leave comments.
YouTube had argued the site was not social media and claimed it brought “value” to younger users across Australia.
But Australia’s eSafety Commissioner said YouTube is the most common site where children aged 10 to 15 saw harmful content.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese backed the move, saying, “Social media is doing social harm to our children, and we’ve got their backs.”
Federal Communications Minister Anika Wells said protecting children online is like swimming in an ocean full of hidden dangers.
“There’s no place for predatory algorithms targeting children,” she said, adding the government won’t back down under legal pressure.
Some media reported Google had threatened legal action over the inclusion of YouTube, citing concerns about free speech.
Despite this, Australia will push ahead, saying social media harms to kids must be tackled urgently and directly.
Tech companies that fail to comply with the law could face fines of up to A$50 million for each offence.
The new rules will not apply to online gaming, messaging, health, or education apps, as they pose fewer risks to teens.
Further details will be presented to federal parliament later this week.
