Twitch Joins Australia's Ban on Youth Social Media Accounts

Sat Nov 22 2025 16:04:36 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Twitch, the popular streaming platform, is now part of Australia's initiative to restrict social media access for users under 16, including other major platforms like Facebook and Instagram.

In a significant move aimed at protecting children from online harms, Australia has added Twitch to its list of prohibited platforms for under-16 users. Effective from December 10, 2025, this ban aims to reduce risks associated with social media interactions among younger audiences. Twitch will enforce the measure by disabling accounts of existing users under 16 starting January 9, 2026. The government's actions reflect an ongoing concern over children's exposure to harmful content online.

Twitch, a streaming platform popular with gamers, has been added to Australia's teen social media ban which starts next month.

It joins other platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat that must ensure under-16s cannot open accounts, with existing accounts being closed from 10 December.

Australia's internet regulator overseeing the ban stated that Twitch, owned by Amazon, was included because its main purpose is online social interaction where users are encouraged to communicate about posted content.

A Twitch spokesperson confirmed that Australians under 16 will not be able to open a Twitch account starting 10 December, and beginning 9 January, existing under-16 accounts will be deactivated.

Julie Inman Grant, the eSafety Commissioner, explained that Twitch had been included in the ban as a platform primarily used for livestreaming, which allows for user interactions based on posted content.

The Australian government has indicated that the ban aims to mitigate the pressures and risks children face on social media, particularly concerning harmful content.

Founded in 2007, Twitch allows users to livestream video games while engaging with their audience through chat. The platform's policy restricts use to those over 13, with parental permission required for users between the ages of 13 and the legal adulthood age in their respective countries.

Last year, Twitch announced plans to increase revenue sharing with creators, allowing streamers to earn through fan subscriptions.

This world-first initiative of banning under-16s from social media includes popular platforms like YouTube, Reddit, and recently added Twitch, which must take measures to restrict access or face significant penalties. The government has yet to detail how enforcement will be achieved but mentioned potential technology like government IDs or age inference through online behavior assessment.

Amid growing concerns about young users' experiences, this ban reflects Australia’s proactive approach to digital safety for children, setting a precedent for global social media regulation.