Twitch, a streaming platform popular with gamers, has been added to Australia's teen social media ban which starts next month.
It joins other platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat that must ensure under-16s cannot open accounts, and existing ones are closed from 10 December.
Australia's internet regulator overseeing the ban stated that Twitch, owned by Amazon, is included because its main purpose is online social interaction, where users are encouraged to chat about posted content.
A Twitch spokesperson confirmed that Australians under 16 will not be able to open a Twitch account from 10 December, and from 9 January, existing under-16 accounts will be deactivated.
eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant explained that Twitch was included because it's a platform where users livestream and post content that allows interactions, potentially exposing children to various risks.
No further platforms are expected to be added to the ban before the start date next month, as stated by Ms. Inman Grant.
The government aims to reduce the pressures and risks children are exposed to on social media, particularly harmful content.
Established in 2007, Twitch focuses on livestreaming, mainly related to video gaming, while also allowing revenue sharing for creators through subscriptions.
The platform currently forbids anyone under 13 from using it, with permission required for users aged 13-16 from a parent or guardian.
The ban, which also includes YouTube, Reddit, and more, requires tech companies to take reasonable steps to prevent under-16s from accessing their platforms or risk substantial fines.
Efforts to enforce this ban may involve age verification methods such as government IDs or technology to infer age based on online behavior.
