Ban or no ban?

As the NZ Government Introduces a Bill to Ban Social Media for the Under-16s, We Take a Look at Opinion from the UK and Australia

As the New Zealand government tables legislation to restrict social media use among those under 16, international examples are coming under the spotlight.

In April 2025, The Times (UK) published an article titled “The Case for Banning Under-16s from Social Media Has Become Undeniable.” The article reported on a growing movement in the UK calling for stronger regulation. It cited high-profile cases involving the deaths of teenagers Brianna Ghey and Olly Stephens, in which social media was found to play a significant role. In both cases, online platforms were used to coordinate bullying and violence, and investigators found evidence of exposure to radical and harmful content.

The article also drew on research from social psychologist Jonathan Haidt, whose work links a rise in adolescent anxiety, self-harm, and depression—particularly in girls—to extended use of platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok. According to Haidt and others, these platforms create feedback loops around appearance, comparison, and social pressure, which contribute to declining youth mental health.

Public support in the UK for a ban is rising. A survey referenced by The Times found that two-thirds of Britons support banning under-16s from social media. Notably, a significant portion of support came from young adults who had grown up with these platforms and believe the psychological impact warrants stronger protections.

In Australia, similar measures are already being trialled. The Australian federal government has introduced legislation that restricts social media access for under-16s, backed by the eSafety Commissioner. Companies that fail to verify users’ ages and comply with the new requirements may face fines. The Australian government has stated the policy is aimed at reducing exposure to harmful content, online predators, and the negative effects on mental wellbeing.

The NZ government’s bill is understood to follow similar lines, with proposed safeguards around age verification and penalties for non-compliant platforms. While details are still under consultation, the intention is to align with international moves to protect young people from content and interactions that current moderation systems fail to prevent.

Sources:

• The Times (UK), April 2025: “The Case for Banning Under-16s from Social Media Has Become Undeniable”
• Australian Government eSafety Office
• Research: Jonathan Haidt, NYU Stern School of Business