An Australian influencer family, the Empire Family, is relocating to the UK to circumvent Australia’s upcoming social media ban for users under 16, ensuring their teenage daughter can continue her online content creation. The family, consisting of mothers Beck and Bec Lea and their children Prezley (17) and Charlotte (14), decided to move from Perth to London due to the ban set to take effect on December 10, 2025.
Australia’s social media ban is a world-first measure aimed at protecting young people from online harms, with non-compliant tech companies facing fines up to A$50 million. However, implementation details remain vague, potentially involving ID verification, parental consent, or facial recognition, raising privacy and accuracy concerns. The government initially exempted YouTube but reversed that decision earlier this year, meaning under-16s can view but not create accounts on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, X, and YouTube.
The Empire Family has a massive online presence, with Prezley’s YouTube channel boasting 2.8 million subscribers and the family account having 1.8 million followers. Charlotte, known as Charli online, has about 500,000 YouTube subscribers, 300,000 TikTok fans, and 200,000 Instagram followers. Their content includes makeup tutorials, gaming, and family vlogs, which they describe as using the internet “for good” to share positive and engaging material.
In a video explaining their move, Beck Lea stated that while they support the ban’s intent to protect youth, they are concerned about the unclear enforcement mechanisms. “We understand that it is protecting young people from harm on the internet, but we use the internet for good,” she said. The family believes the ban’s rollout will encounter challenges, and moving to the UK provides a buffer while Australia addresses these issues.
The relocation was feasible as Prezley has finished school and Charlotte has transitioned to online education. With dual British-Australian citizenship, London offered a practical base due to their existing UK audience and travel opportunities. Bec Lea highlighted how social media enables young people to positively influence others and build businesses, emphasizing the platform’s potential for good when used responsibly.
The ban has ignited discussions on its practicality and impact on young creators. By requiring account deactivation for under-16s, it could stifle creativity and economic opportunities for families like the Empire Family. Their move illustrates how digital content creation transcends borders, prompting considerations for how regulations might adapt in a globally connected world.
Ultimately, the Empire Family’s decision to relocate underscores the immediate effects of national tech policies on individuals. While they plan to return to Australia, their action highlights the need for balanced approaches that protect children without unduly restricting beneficial uses of social media. This case may influence future debates on similar regulations worldwide.