SYDNEY (Web Desk) – Australia’s landmark ban preventing children under the age of 16 from accessing major social media platforms has shown little immediate impact, according to a new study published in the British Medical Journal (BMJ). The findings suggest that despite the government’s strict legislation, most teenagers have continued using popular platforms by bypassing age verification measures.
Researchers surveyed 408 Australian adolescents aged between 12 and 15 years, three months after the law came into effect in December 2025. The study found that approximately 85 percent of participants were still actively using social media services, including Instagram, YouTube and other popular platforms.
The report identified weaknesses in the systems designed to enforce the age restrictions. Around two-thirds of underage users admitted they simply entered a false birth date when creating new accounts, claiming to be at least 16 years old. Others reportedly uploaded selfies that age-estimation tools accepted as proof they met the minimum age requirement, allowing them to continue accessing the platforms.
According to the researchers, the findings indicate that the legislation has not yet produced a significant reduction in teenagers’ social media use. They noted that while the law aimed to delay young people’s access to online platforms and reduce exposure to digital harms, evidence of meaningful behavioral change was limited during the first three months of implementation.
When the legislation was introduced, authorities reported that millions of underage accounts had been removed or restricted. However, the study suggests many teenagers quickly adapted by finding simple ways to bypass the new verification systems, reducing the long-term effectiveness of the initial enforcement effort.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has acknowledged the challenges facing the policy and said the government remains committed to strengthening the law. He stated that officials would continue stress-testing the legislation to ensure it can withstand legal scrutiny while improving enforcement against companies that fail to comply.
The government is also preparing for ongoing legal challenges from technology companies. Reddit has launched proceedings in Australia’s High Court, arguing aspects of the legislation should be reviewed. The case remains in its preliminary stages and could influence how the law is enforced in the future.
Meanwhile, Australia’s eSafety Commission is preparing legal action against several social media platforms accused of failing to meet their obligations under the new rules. Companies found guilty of systemic non-compliance could face penalties of up to A$49.5 million.
Digital safety experts say the study highlights the growing difficulty governments face in regulating online platforms through age verification alone. They argue that stronger identity checks, improved parental controls and greater cooperation from technology companies may be necessary to achieve the law’s intended goals.
The BMJ study is expected to contribute to the ongoing debate over online safety, children’s digital wellbeing and the responsibilities of social media companies. Australian authorities have indicated they will continue reviewing the legislation and enforcement measures as new evidence emerges on its effectiveness.
