Instagram Age Restrictions in Australia: What's New About the Under-16 Ban
The Online Safety Amendment (Social Media Minimum Age) Act 2024 is a landmark regulation aimed at protecting young users online. Its key requirements include:
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Social media platforms must take “reasonable steps” to block or remove users under 16.
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Platforms failing to comply could face fines up to A$49.5 million, emphasizing the seriousness of enforcement.
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Platforms must implement age assurance mechanisms, including submitting ID, biometric verification, or using trusted third-party services.
The law is not designed to penalize young users but to ensure platforms take responsibility for protecting underage users. Platforms like Instagram now prompt affected accounts to verify age through a notification system.
The legislation also emphasizes data privacy. Any personal information collected for age verification must be handled securely, encrypted, and used solely for verification purposes. Platforms cannot require submission of government-issued ID for all users and must offer reasonable alternatives.
How to Get Your Age Verified on Instagram Australia
Step 1: Check for Age Verification Requests
If your account is affected by the new rules, Instagram will send a notification. Click on the notification to start the age verification process.
Step 2: Choose a Verification Method
Instagram provides multiple options:
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Upload a government-issued ID such as a passport or driver’s license.
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Take a video selfie for age estimation.
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Use a trusted third-party verification service.
If you prefer not to share ID, always look for alternative methods provided by Instagram.
Step 3: Submit and Complete Verification
Follow the prompts carefully. Successful verification keeps your account active, while a failed attempt may result in temporary deactivation until your age is confirmed.
Step 4: Download Your Content
Even before verification, download your posts, photos, stories, and contacts. Instagram allows users to request a data download from settings, ensuring no content is lost if verification is delayed.
Step 5: Protect Your Data
Submit personal information only over secure connections. For users concerned about privacy, tools like UFO VPN can encrypt your connection, providing an additional layer of security. However, VPNs should only be used for privacy protection, not to bypass age or regional restrictions.
Instagram Age Verification Not Working in Australia: Reasons & Solutions
Many users report problems during the age verification process. Common reasons include:
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Incorrect or mismatched information
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Ensure the ID information matches the Instagram account details exactly.
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Double-check spelling, date of birth, and address.
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Outdated app version
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Always update Instagram to the latest version to ensure compatibility with the verification system.
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Temporary server or technical issues
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Instagram verification may occasionally fail due to server overload or maintenance.
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Retry after a few hours or switch to a different device.
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Privacy settings and device restrictions
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Some phones or VPNs may block verification requests. Temporarily disabling strict privacy settings may resolve the issue.
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Region-based restrictions
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If Instagram detects you are accessing the platform from outside Australia, age verification may fail.
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Use a secure, reliable VPN like UFO VPN to maintain your location securely, but never attempt to falsify your location to bypass restrictions.
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Solutions:
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Retry verification using a different method, such as switching from ID upload to selfie verification.
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Contact Instagram support through the app if repeated attempts fail.
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Ensure you follow Instagram’s official instructions carefully and avoid third-party websites claiming to fix verification issues.
Safety Tips for Verifying Age on Australian Instagram
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Use Secure Networks
Avoid public Wi-Fi when submitting ID or selfies. Public networks are more vulnerable to data interception. -
Submit Through Official Channels
Only use Instagram’s official app or website. Scammers may mimic verification prompts to steal personal data. -
Keep Apps Updated
Running the latest version of Instagram ensures compatibility with the newest age verification protocols. -
Start Early
Complete verification well before the December 10, 2025 deadline to avoid temporary deactivation. -
Parental Supervision
Parents or guardians should guide teens under 16, assist with verification, and help back up account content. -
Protect Privacy with VPN
VPNs like UFO VPN can enhance security during the verification process by encrypting your internet connection. Remember, VPNs should never be used to bypass age restrictions. -
Be Wary of Phishing
Never share verification details with unknown sources. Verify links and emails claiming to help with Instagram verification. -
Understand Account Reactivation
Temporarily deactivated accounts are not deleted. Once verification is complete, accounts can be restored with all original content intact.
FAQs
Do I need a government ID for age verification?
Not always. Instagram offers alternatives such as video selfies or third-party verification services.
What happens if I don’t verify my age before December 10, 2025?
Accounts may be temporarily deactivated until verification is completed.
Can parents verify for under-16 users?
Yes. Parental guidance is recommended, especially for younger teens.
Is it safe to submit ID or selfies for verifying age on Instagram Australia?
Yes, Instagram encrypts the data and uses it only for verification. Avoid unofficial channels.
Can I use a VPN to bypass the age restriction?
No. VPNs like UFO VPN can protect privacy but should not be used to circumvent age or location rules.
Conclusion
Australia’s under-16 social media ban requires platforms like Instagram to implement age verification measures and take reasonable steps to protect young users. By following official verification methods, downloading content, and protecting your personal data, teens and parents can navigate these changes safely. Responsible use of tools like VPNs can enhance privacy, but legal requirements must always be respected. Completing age verification promptly ensures uninterrupted access to Instagram while staying compliant with Australian regulations.
