Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and other platforms want YouTube banned in Australia, here’s why

Facebook and Instagram parent company Meta Platforms, Snapchat, TikTok and other tech companies are calling on the Australian government to reconsider its decision to exempt YouTube from its landmark legislation banning social media access for children under 16. As per news agency Reuters, competitors argue that YouTube exposes children to the same risks as other platforms, including algorithmic content recommendations, social interaction features, and potentially harmful content.

The law, passed in November, requires social media platforms to bar logins by minors or face hefty fines of up to A$49.5 million ($31 million). YouTube was exempted from this law based on its classification as an educational tool and its allowance within family accounts with parental supervision.