'Social media ban for under 16 is a start, but digital education must follow': Melbourne mother

The YouTube logo is being displayed on a mobile phone with the sixteen plus symbol (16+) seen in the background, in this photo illustration. (Left Image: Melbourne mother Niti Bhargava) Credit: AAP image/Supplied by Niti Bhargava

The social media age restriction debate has reignited in Australia after the government announced a ban on children under 16 from creating YouTube accounts, effective from 10 December. Communications Minister Anika Wells made the decision based on advice from the e-Safety Commissioner. YouTube Kids will still be accessible. But how are parents reacting to these social media restrictions?

Follow and Subscribe

Apple Podcasts YouTube Spotify Listnr Download (8.55MB)

Download the SBS Audio appAvailable on iOS and Android

Published 31 July 2025 1:26pm

Updated 31 July 2025 2:06pm

By Tys Occhiuzzi

Presented by Natasha Kaul

Source: SBS

Share this with family and friends

The social media age restriction debate has reignited in Australia after the government announced a ban on children under 16 from creating YouTube accounts, effective from 10 December. Communications Minister Anika Wells made the decision based on advice from the e-Safety Commissioner. YouTube Kids will still be accessible. But how are parents reacting to these social media restrictions?

Find all our podcasts here at: SBS Hindi Podcast Collection. You can also tune in to SBS Hindi at 5 pm on SBS South Asian on digital radio, on channel 305 on your television, via the SBS Audio app , or stream from our website.