What apps are in the social media ban?
Australia’s social media ban is coming—so which platforms are actually covered?
The ban will apply to platforms where the primary purpose is social interaction. These include popular apps including Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, Snapchat, X (formerly Twitter), and LinkedIn.
Are there any platforms kids will be able to use??
The government has said that they plan to make exceptions for
Messaging platforms (e.g., WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger)
Online gaming services
Platforms designed for health or educational purposes
But, we don’t have a final list of confirmed apps yet. And that list might be subject to change as the ban goes through its teething issues.
What about YouTube?
YouTube is included in the ban, meaning kids under 16 won’t be able to access their account. In practice, kids won’t be able to like and subscribe, or post their own videos, but they will be able to watch any video on YouTube via a browser without logging in, just like you or I can.
This will not prevent schools from sending YouTube links to students for use in their homework or from students spending hours watching YouTube shorts (essentially a different version of TikTok).
YouTube threatened to sue the Federal Government for the inclusion in the ban, but we are yet to see the lawsuit started.
What do you think about these platforms being included? Drop your thoughts below! 👇
Social media ban workshops are the best way to educate your staff, students and parents about the ban. Book in for a social media ban presentation for your school, organisation or local government.
