The Global Story - Will a social media ban for Australian teens work?
Download Will a social media ban for Australian teens work?
**This episode contains discussion of bullying and suicide**
Australian teens are bracing for a new law coming into effect this week that will ban social media accounts for anyone under the age of 16. The Government says the legislation is designed to protect the mental wellbeing of Australian children and teens – but it’s already proving controversial, not least among American tech companies and some politicians who see the ban as a threat to free speech.
In today’s episode, we are joined by Katy Watson, the BBC’s Australia correspondent, to discuss how the country became a global test case for a bold new policy – and crucially, whether it will succeed.
Producers: Cat Farnsworth, Aron Keller and Xandra Ellin
Mix: Travis Evans
Senior News Editor: China Collins
Photo: A teen using her phone ahead of social media band for users under 16. Hollie Adams/Reuters
Published on Tuesday, 9th December 2025.
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