Revealed: Which social media platforms are and aren’t subject to the under 16s ban

The tech titans’ peak body is demanding further consultation ahead of the bill’s slated passage next week that would ban Aussies under the age of 16 from social media.

Snapchat, TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, and X will all be forced to prevent users under 16 from accessing their platforms under tough new social media laws.

But YouTube, Facebook Messenger Kids and Whats-App are set to be exempt from the age restriction bans.

The Coalition and experts on Thursday welcomed the introduction of the legislation into the federal parliament.

But the peak body for the tech titans has demanded further consultation ahead of the bill’s slated passage next week, saying a blanket ban does not encourage them to improve safety.

The ban would apply to Snapchat, TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, and X.

Communications Minister Michelle Rowland told the parliament that as a minimum, the major platforms as well as Reddit, would have to take reasonable steps to prevent access for users under 16.

Messaging and online gaming services will receive a carve out, as well as education and health services such as ReachOut’s PeerChat, Kids Helpline My Circle and Google Classroom.

Opposition communications spokesman David Coleman welcomed the fact Snapchat had been included in the definition of a social media platform.

“Snapchat has brought despair to many Australian families – and sometimes tragedy,” Mr Coleman said.

“We want to ensure that very robust privacy protections are in place and we want to ensure that social media companies must start right now to implement these laws.”

Coalition MPs also believe there is an opportunity to do more on algorithm reform as the platforms are told to clean up their act.

But DIGI managing director Sunita Bose, which represents the platforms, said the bill should be sent to an inquiry claiming neither experts nor the community had been consulted on the details.

“A blunt ban doesn’t encourage companies to continually improve safety because the focus is on keeping teenagers off the service, rather than keeping them safe when they’re on it,” she said.

Clinical psychologist Danielle Einstein welcomed the legislation saying limiting social media use would improve the mental health of young people amid rising depression, eating disorders and bullying.

Dr Einstein said she expected the rest of the world would take notice of Australia’s leadership and eventually fall into line.

“It is important for parents of this age to stay calm and not be taken in by fears that some experts have mentioned regarding the age ban not being the right answer,” she said.