Australia's ban on social media for children under 16 has had limited early impact, with a study finding that 85% of Australian teenagers continue to use social media despite the restriction.

Supporters of the law believe it could take up to a decade before the measure becomes fully effective.

The United Kingdom has also announced plans to implement a similar policy.

Despite Australia's ban, a study found that four out of five children are still actively using platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, and Snapchat three months after the Social Media Minimum Age Act 2024 took effect.

The study, which involved 408 children aged 12 to 17, found there was “insufficient evidence to conclude that exposure to the Act had any early substantial effects on social media use among adolescents aged under 16 years.”

Many teenagers reportedly bypass the restrictions by creating fake accounts or accessing social media through private browsers.

Dr. Courtney Barnes, a member of the research team, said, “The age restrictions have not yet substantially reduced adolescent social media use, or access to restricted platforms. However, it will take time for adequate implementation to occur.”

The U.K. is following Australia's lead after announcing on June 15 its plan to ban social media use for those under 16. The measure is expected to take full effect by the spring of 2027.

Chris Sherwood, CEO of the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC), said: “It's evident from this research that a ban alone will not keep all children safe from harm online.”