New data from YouGov surveys reveal that while Australian adults entered the under-16 social media ban with significant concerns about children’s online safety, early perceptions suggest the policy is beginning to show impact, though many believe it remains a work in progress.

Prior to the ban, more than three in four Australian adults (77%) expressed concerns about risks facing children online, including cyberbullying (79%), exposure to harmful or inappropriate content (79%), and mental health impacts (78%). Early sentiment now shows that three in five (59%) believe the ban has been effective so far, signalling cautious optimism as outcomes begin to emerge.

Parents report behavioural shifts, both positive and negative

Among parents of children aged 16 and under, 61% observed between two and four positive behavioural changes following the ban. Reported improvements include:

  • 43% noticed more in-person social interactions
  • 38% said their children are more present and engaged during interactions
  • 38% reported improved parent-child relationships

However, the gains are not universal. Two in five parents observed between two and four negative impacts, including:

  • 27% reporting increased digital inequality or unequal access
  • 27% noting a shift to alternative or less regulated platforms
  • 25% observing reduced social connection, creativity, or peer support online

These findings highlight the complexity of the issue and the varied experiences of Australian families navigating the new restrictions.

Shared responsibility: Expectations on parents and platforms

Australians broadly agree that protecting children online is a shared responsibility, but expectations differ when it comes to who should lead.

Nearly half of Australian adults (49%) believe parents should be primarily responsible for protecting children from online risks. Similarly, 45% of parents of children aged 16 and under agree that parental responsibility should come first.

Trust levels also reveal a notable gap. While 63% of Australian adults say they trust the Australian Government to act in children’s best interests, only 35% express trust in technology platforms, highlighting public calls for stronger accountability from the tech sector.

A policy still in progress

Australians are clear that it is too early for definitive conclusions. An overwhelming 97% say stronger evidence is needed to properly judge the ban’s impact, and 95% believe further action or refinement is required.

Six in ten (59%) consider clear evidence of reduced online harm essential to assessing the ban’s success. A further 55% say proof of improved social or educational outcomes would be important, while 51% believe evidence demonstrating the ban’s fairness and effectiveness would also be valuable.

Additionally, 62% believe greater parental involvement could make the ban more effective, while 58% support stronger rules for technology companies and 56% say stricter enforcement and age verification would improve its effectiveness.

The findings suggest that while the public sees early signs of effectiveness, there is a strong appetite for continued evaluation, transparency, and policy evolution to ensure the ban delivers meaningful, long-term improvements to children’s online safety and wellbeing.

This research will also be presented at the upcoming Government and Social Research Conference 2026, hosted by The Research Society, Australia.

Methodology: The insights in this article have been sourced via YouGov Surveys: Serviced – providing rapid answers from the right audience. This study was conducted as an online survey between the 12th and 14th of January 2026.

The sample comprised of 1,070 Australia’s aged 18+. The figures have been weighted and are representative of all Australians adults aged 18+. Respondents are sourced from the YouGov panel. Panellists are incentivised by points that can be redeemed for cash or vouchers. This study has been carried out in accordance with the ISO 20252:2019 standards, to which YouGov is accredited.

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