Australia has decided to ban children under 16 from using nine major social media platforms. This includes Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, X (Twitter), YouTube, Threads, Kik, and Reddit.
Starting December 10, anyone below 16 will not be allowed to use these apps. The government says the rule is meant to protect young users from online harm, bullying, and mental health issues caused by overuse and exposure to unsafe content.
Apps like Discord, Roblox, and WhatsApp are not part of this restriction for now, but they could face similar rules in the future depending on how this new policy works.
Context in Nepal
While this decision is from Australia, it raises an important question for Nepal too. Many Nepali teenagers also spend hours scrolling on TikTok, Instagram, or YouTube, often without any parental guidance. Such moves abroad could push Nepali authorities to consider stronger online safety laws in the coming days.
A change in digital childhood
Experts say this may be the beginning of a global shift in how children use social media. Countries are starting to treat online exposure just like physical safety something that needs clear limits and protection.
