Why Meta Threads Australia Requires Age Verification?
Threads, as part of Meta’s suite of social platforms, has to comply with Australia’s Online Safety Amendment (Social Media Minimum Age) Act 2024, which prohibits users under 16 from maintaining active accounts. The law is intended to protect young teens from exposure to online content deemed inappropriate for their age.
Meta has begun notifying users who appear to be under 16 in Australia, asking them to download their data and verify their age before December 10, 2025. This early enforcement helps Meta comply with the law while giving users time to prepare. Users failing to verify may have their accounts temporarily locked or permanently restricted.
The Threads age restriction ensures that the platform meets legal requirements and reduces potential risks for young users. While these rules may seem strict, they reflect growing global attention on teen safety online, particularly on platforms with messaging, sharing, and community interaction features.
How to Get Age Verified on Threads Australia?
If you are an Australian Threads user approaching or under 16, following the correct verification steps is crucial. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
1. Check for Age Verification Prompt
Meta detects accounts that may fall under the age threshold. When this happens, a prompt appears on Threads stating you need to verify your age. The process begins by clicking “Start Age Verification.” This is the first step and must be completed to prevent account restriction.
2. Choose Verification Method
Meta offers two primary verification methods:
a) Upload Government-Issued ID
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Acceptable documents include passport, driver’s license, or birth certificate.
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Ensure the photo is clear and the details are readable.
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Once uploaded, Meta will process the information and verify your age, usually within 1–3 business days.
b) Facial Age Estimation (via Third-Party Yoti Service)
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You may opt for a selfie or short video scan.
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The AI estimates your age based on facial features.
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Accuracy is generally high, but users aged 15–17 may face minor misjudgments.
3. Complete Verification and Wait for Results
Once you submit your verification method, Meta reviews the information. You will receive a notification once the verification is approved. A successful verification allows you to continue using Threads without interruption.
If verification fails, the platform may temporarily lock your account. You can retry using a different method or submit additional documentation to confirm your age. Importantly, this verification also covers Instagram and Facebook if the same Meta account is used across platforms.
4. Backup Data Before Verification
Meta encourages users to download data from Threads, including posts, messages, and media. This step ensures that no personal content is lost if your account is temporarily restricted during verification.
Safety Tips for Verifying Age on Australian Threads
While verifying your age, privacy and security are essential. Here are practical safety tips:
Use Official Channels Only
Always use the built-in verification prompts on Threads. Avoid third-party websites claiming to verify Meta accounts, as these can be scams.
Secure Your Device and Connection
To reduce the risk of data interception, use a secure Wi-Fi network. Users can consider a trusted VPN like UFO VPN to ensure their connection is encrypted, especially on public networks.
Prepare Clear and Accurate Documents
Blurry or incomplete ID photos may delay verification. Make sure your document matches the information on your Meta account.
Avoid Sharing Sensitive Information
Do not share passwords, personal codes, or verification links with others. Meta’s process does not require sending your login details to anyone outside official prompts.
Follow Meta Guidelines
Stick to the instructions provided by Threads during verification. Any deviation may result in delays or account restrictions.
By following these safety tips, users can verify their age without compromising privacy and continue to access Threads seamlessly.
FAQs
Can I use Threads if I’m under 16 in Australia?
No, Meta’s policy and Australian law prevent users under 16 from maintaining active Threads accounts. Verification is mandatory.
How does Meta verify my age on Threads?
You can verify either by uploading a government-issued ID or using facial age estimation via a third-party service like Yoti.
What documents are accepted for verification?
Passport, driver’s license, and birth certificate are the most common accepted forms of ID. Clear photos are essential.
Will age verification on Threads affect my Instagram or Facebook accounts?
Yes, verification may be synced across Meta accounts. Completing verification on one platform often applies to the others.
What if my age verification fails?
You can retry using another method or submit additional documentation to confirm your age. Failing to verify may temporarily restrict your account.
Conclusion
Navigating the Threads age restriction in Australia is essential for young users to maintain access. Completing Meta Threads age verification safely ensures compliance with the law while protecting privacy. By following the outlined steps and security tips, Australian users can continue using Threads, Instagram, and Facebook confidently in 2025.
