Starting from December 10, users aged under 16 will be automatically logged out of their accounts and restricted from logging back in or setting up new ones.

This update means that these young users will no longer be able to create content, like or comment on videos, or subscribe to channels.

However, they will still be able to browse YouTube and watch videos. Their accounts will be reactivated once they reach the age of 16.

The company has indicated that parental controls, such as content filters or channel blocking, will also be disabled for these accounts.

Although the company plans to follow the new regulations, it has voiced concerns, suggesting that these measures might not effectively shield children from online dangers.

“This is a disappointing update to share,” Google and YouTube Australia Public Policy Senior Manager Rachel Lord said in a blog post.

“This law will not fulfill its promise to make kids safer online, and will, in fact, make Australian kids less safe on YouTube.”

Lord believes kids need to be protected whilst still being able to access social media, rather than being blocked entirely.

She also claimed the law removes important parental protections that keep kids safe.

“It removes the very parental controls and safety filters built to protect them, it will not make kids safer on our platform,” she said.

“These are the unfortunate consequences of a rushed legislative process that failed to allow for adequate consultation and consideration of the real complexities of online safety regulation.”