Sweeping New Rules Hit Popular Streaming Platform: Australia’s major changes to social media rules are about to affect young gamers. Twitch, the live streaming platform widely used by teens, has now been added to the federal government’s under-16 social media ban.
eSafety commissioner Julie Inman Grant confirmed the update less than three weeks before the law takes effect on December 10. She explained that Twitch’s interactive features bring it under the same age restrictions as other social platforms.
“Twitch is a platform most commonly used for live streaming or posting content that enables users, including Australian children, to interact with others in relation to the content posted,” the commissioner said in a statement.
Not Considered Purely a Gaming Platform
The decision was made even though the new rules include an exemption for platforms designed only for gaming. According to eSafety, Twitch’s focus on real-time interaction outweighs its connection to gameplay, which puts it in the same category as social networking sites.
Accounts for Minors Will Be Removed
Starting December 10, Australians under 16 will no longer be allowed to create a Twitch account. Any current accounts owned by minors will be shut down over the following month.
Twitch already has global rules stating that users must be at least 13, and younger users need a parent or guardian to supervise them. The Australian change adds another layer of age control specific to the country.
A Growing List of Restricted Platforms
The under-16 ban now includes Facebook, Instagram, Threads, Snapchat, TikTok, X, YouTube, Reddit, Kick, and Twitch. Communications Minister Anika Wells’ office said the list can continue to evolve.
The office added that the list “remains dynamic” but confirmed that no further platform assessments are planned before the December 10 deadline.
“Our historic law simply aims to provide Australian children with a reprieve from the persuasive pull of platforms,” a spokesperson said.
“We are not chasing perfection, we are chasing a meaningful difference in the lives of young Australians.”
Platforms Face Large Penalties
Social media companies that fail to take “reasonable steps” to remove underage users could face fines of up to $50 million.
Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, has already said it will begin removing accounts under 16 before the new rules officially begin.
Twitch also released a statement confirming that all Australian accounts held by users under 16 will be deactivated. The company reinforced its global minimum age policy and its rules around parental supervision for younger users.
ALSO READ: Protect Your Accounts: Easy Tips For Smarter Password Security
