Australia to Block Kids Under 16 from Kick, Reddit, and Other Social Apps

Australia bans Kick and Reddit for kids. Yes, you heard it right. Australia is increasing its restrictions on social media access for minors, announcing that Kick and Reddit would join the list of social media banned for users under 16 nationwide.

Nationally banning Kick and Reddit will increase the number of banned apps from the previous list of Snapchat; social media now stands to ban TikTok, Threads, Instagram, Twitter (X), Reddit, and YouTube, the earlier banned apps.

The proposed law, which will come into effect on December 10, 2025, will build on Australia's existing list of restricted social media platforms, which already includes TikTok, Snapchat, Twitter (X), Instagram, Threads, Facebook, and YouTube.

The law, if passed, is designed to alleviate worsening fears of harm from social media, privacy concerns, and exposure to age-inappropriate content.

In addition to all this, platforms can be fined up to A.5 million, which is also equivalent to USD 32 million, if any company is noncompliant with these advisories.

Australia bans Kick and Reddit for kids: Here is the Reason

As the eSafety Commission explains, both of these sites are considered sites whose “sole or significant purpose is to enable online social interaction.” While Reddit has established a long-standing reputation as a platform for open, discussion-based communities, the rapid growth of Kick as a live-streaming platform draws attention for what is essentially no content moderation, and is met with various controversies.

Communications Minister Anika Wells said the government is not trying to achieve a perfect system but “a meaningful difference” to better protect children online.

Including Reddit and Kick to the legislation, she adds, recognizes that online platforms have shifted from traditional forms of social media into online interactive streaming and user-generated discussions, but still possess similar risks. Even as global gaming news like Halo Campaign Evolved PS5 Release Announced continues to trend, Australia remains focused on tightening digital safety laws for young users.

What the Ban Means for Platforms

Once implemented, platforms will be legally required to verify users’ ages or restrict underage access entirely. Some of the big tech giants like Meta, Snap, and TikTok have already mentioned that they are already cooperating on this and are exploring options for teens to back up or suspend their accounts before the cutoff date.

However, the ban doesn’t cover every online platform. Services such as Twitch, Roblox, PlayStation Network, Xbox Live, Fortnite, and Steam are not included, as their primary purpose is gaming or product-based communication, not social networking.

Reactions to the decision vary. Supporters often argue it is a step in the right direction to protect young people online, helping citizens to minimize harmful exposure and online grooming.

Critics of the law contend that a blanket ban might be difficult to enforce and run the risk of pushing young audiences to less regulated or alternative platforms.