Australia's internet regulator eSafety published research on Friday showing that more than 80% of teenagers under 16 are still using social media, despite the government's landmark ban that took effect on December 10 last year.
According to the report, around 86% of surveyed children used at least one age-restricted platform before the ban came into force. Three months later, that figure remained above 81%. About 58% of teenagers said they use social media daily, a slight drop from the previous 60%.
eSafety noted that most minors who had accounts before the ban were able to keep them or create new ones. The main reason cited is that social media platforms have not yet implemented effective age-verification measures. About half of the children who retained their accounts said platforms did not check their age. Others said their accounts were registered as being 16 or older, or that verification systems mistakenly determined they were of age.
The report also found negligible changes in children's activities such as sports, arts, music, time spent with family and friends, or participation in community events during this period.
Australia is the first country in the world to impose a social media ban for users under 16, driven by concerns about the impact of social media on children's mental and physical health. The implementation of this policy is being closely watched by many countries as they consider similar measures.
Reacting to the findings, Australia's Assistant Minister for Productivity, Competition, Charities, and Treasury Andrew Leigh on Saturday defended the ban. He argued that the ban has shifted the societal debate, especially among parents. He stressed that millions of accounts have been shut down and that 100% compliance is difficult to achieve, similar to laws setting a minimum drinking age.
