Cape Town – The South African government has dismissed suggestions that it could adopt Australia’s strict new law banning under-16s from using social-media platforms, saying the country will follow its own approach to child protection.
During a briefing on the outcomes of the final cabinet meeting of 2025, Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni was asked whether South Africa might consider a similar ban.
She made it clear that the government had no intentions of doing so.
“We have just tabled our approach on protecting children. They are not even in the African continent,” she said, stressing that South Africa’s challenges and priorities differ significantly from Australia’s.
She added that the country already has a framework aimed at safeguarding young people.
“We have got the strategy to make sure that children are protected, that they are protected from malnutrition and that we support them to be active citizens,” she stated.
Ntshavheni said the government’s focus is on long-term developmental support for children.
“We protect their rights and their needs, we support their development and learning. Let’s focus on South Africa’s path and let’s engage on that path.”
According to officials, the recently finalised five-year National Plan of Action for Children outlines measures to strengthen child welfare, digital safety education, and social protection — instead of restricting access to online platforms.
Her remarks come as Australia begins enforcing a world-first ban preventing under-16s from using major platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat, Facebook and others.
As reported internationally, the law requires tech companies to verify users’ ages or face hefty fines.
While international debates continue, South Africa’s government maintains that a blanket ban would not suit local conditions, arguing that the national strategy prioritises social support, rights-based protections and targeted interventions.
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Compiled by Lisabeal Nqamqhele
