Originally published: Mumbrella, 05 June 2026
Australia’s under-16 social media ban is proving difficult to enforce, with the vast majority of children still accessing banned platforms and parents left to carry much of the burden, according to new research.
The report, conducted by global data and insights platform Pureprofile, surveyed 1,025 parents, teachers, and young Australians. It found that in the six months since the ban’s inception, guardrails and age verification methods are largely failing to block under-16 access.
78% (compared to 84% in 2025) of children surveyed had sustained access to the banned platforms, which include Instagram, Youtube, Tiktok and Snapchat.
Two in five (41%) of under-16s admit to trying to subvert the ban, while 43% of parents stated they’re aware that their children have tried. Public support for the world-first ban remains high with 76% of parents still in support.
Martin Fitz, CEO of Pureprofile said in a release: “Six months post-ban, the findings suggest many of the concerns raised before the ban have materialised.”
“While support for the policy remains strong, parents are under overwhelming pressure to enforce it,” he said.
Download the full ‘Australia’s Under-16s Social Media Ban Report – Wave 2’ report here >
