Leading tech companies including Meta, TikTok, and Snap are voicing strong opposition to Australia’s proposed social media ban for users under 16, after it was revealed that YouTube may be granted a special exemption thanks to a personal assurance from Communications Minister Michelle Rowland.
The controversy stems from a letter sent by Minister Rowland to YouTube’s CEO on December 9, in which she pledged that the Australian government would exclude the platform from the upcoming legislation. The letter, released through a freedom-of-information request, was sent just days after the legislation passed Parliament—but weeks before any formal public consultation on exemptions had begun.
In her letter, Rowland wrote to “reaffirm the commitment” to keep YouTube outside the scope of the ban, an early move that has angered rival platforms and raised concerns about the fairness and transparency of the government’s approach.Industry Backlash
TikTok issued a sharp response on Tuesday, questioning why YouTube was given what it called “a free pass” before any official feedback had been collected, including input from child safety experts. “Her letter raises serious questions about the integrity of the government’s plan,” the company said.
Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, echoed the sentiment, stating, “We are disappointed in the process, which has been marked by a lack of transparency and open discourse.” Meta also criticized YouTube’s exemption, saying it “simply doesn’t make sense” given the platform’s popularity among young users.
Snap, the owner of Snapchat, also pushed back. A company spokesperson said, “Blanket assurances made to the CEO of YouTube that the company would be excluded raise some serious questions about the fairness of this process.” Snap has urged the Minister to reconsider her position on the carveout for YouTube.
What’s at Stake
The government has framed the legislation as a necessary step to protect children from the harmful effects of social media and online content. Research has shown platforms like Instagram can negatively impact youth mental health, and TikTok’s algorithm-driven short videos are frequently cited as addictive.
Despite this, YouTube one of the most-used platforms by children and teens in Australia is set to avoid the new rules, causing frustration among its industry peers.
The Dec. 9 letter also indicates that Rowland planned to meet with YouTube’s CEO on Dec. 13, further fueling speculation about behind-the-scenes deals.
Critics argue that exempting YouTube from the ban undermines the government’s broader child protection efforts and creates an uneven playing field for other tech companies navigating increasingly strict regulations.
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