The Empire Family, a popular influencer family with millions of followers, is leaving Australia due to the nation's upcoming social media ban for children under 16. The family, consisting of parents Beck and Bec Lea and their children Charli, 14, and Prezley, 17, are moving from Perth to London before the Online Safety Amendment takes effect on December 10.
The legislation, introduced by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's government, will prohibit under-16s from using platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube, with companies facing fines for non-compliance. The family, who have built a following of over six million subscribers since 2018, cited the ban as a key factor in their decision to relocate.
In a video, Bec explained that the ban prompted their move, as Charli would be blocked from her own platforms. The family earns a six-figure income through YouTube and sponsorships. Bec said, “When it became clear that the ban really was coming, we knew: We’ve got to find a solution. Charli loves being online.”
Rebecca will move to London first, followed by the rest of the family. Charli holds British citizenship, allowing her to continue her online activities in the UK. Prezley, who is 17, is unaffected by the ban. The family acknowledged the government's intent to protect children but argued the rules hinder their positive use of social media.
Critics of the ban warn it could limit safe spaces for vulnerable youth and raise privacy concerns. For the Empire Family, relocating ensures Charli can maintain her online career. Beck noted, “We’ve got a massive UK audience, we’ve got our passports, so we thought, why not?”
