YouTube gives four reasons with social media ban in Australia is ‘less safe’ for kids

As social media ban for under-16 in Australia is set to take effect on December 10, Google’s YouTube has voiced strong opposition to legislation, asserting that such blanket bans are likely to be “counterproductive” and ultimately make children less safe online. The platform’s stance comes as governments worldwide consider regulations to balance online safety with young people’s access to educational and creative material.

“Last week we shared an update on what YouTube will look like for users and creators in Australia as a result of the new law. As other governments around the world consider how to tackle the very real challenge of helping young people stay safe online while also helping them access positive material, it’s clear that blanket account bans will have extremely negative consequences,” YouTube said.