Australia’s internet watchdog said on Friday that it will include Amazon-owned Twitch in the upcoming social media ban for teenagers. It said it will not add Pinterest. Reuters reported the decision.

Ban Starts on December 10

Australia will become the first country to block people aged 16 and under from using social media. The rule begins on 10 December. Companies must take “reasonable steps” to follow the law. If they fail, they may face penalties of up to 49.5 million Australian dollars, or about 32 million US dollars.

Twitch Faces Ban, Pinterest Does Not

Regulators expanded the list of restricted platforms. They added Twitch, a popular live-streaming site for gaming and interactive videos. They spared Pinterest. Officials said Pinterest carries lower risk. Its content is more controlled and less harmful.

The decision is part of a major review of Australia’s Online Safety Act. The government is responding to rising concerns about long screen time, online grooming, and harmful content targeting teenagers.

Why Regulators Targeted Twitch

Reuters said officials pointed to Twitch’s unfiltered live streams. They said real-time content exposes minors to bullying and harassment. They noted that the platform lacks strong safeguards. Officials believe the risk level on Twitch is much higher.

Wider Context

Australia has already banned Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat for users under 16. The government says the restrictions will reduce addiction, cyberbullying, and mental-health issues. Critics call the rules too strict. They say the ban may cut off young people from creative and educational online communities.

Industry Reaction

Twitch has not issued a response. Experts warn the ban will affect a large part of its Australian audience. Many young gamers rely on the platform.

Pinterest welcomed the decision. It said it will continue to focus on positive and inspirational content.