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During a major move for online policy, Australia has enacted a pioneering ban on social media access for users below the age of sixteen. The step has been championed by the nation's Prime Minister as a "proud day" and predicted by the eSafety chief as a reform the "international community will follow."

A Historic Change Takes Effect

Speaking at the Prime Minister's Sydney residence, Prime Minister the PM declared the ban represented Australia demonstrating "the line has been drawn." He described it as a "globally pioneering initiative" that would "transform lives" for Australian children and provide parents with "more peace of mind."

"This is indeed a historic day to be Australian. Because make no mistake – this change will change lives," the Prime Minister remarked. "This is a significant measure which will continue to reverberate around the world."

Online Safety Commissioner Draws Comparisons to Past Societal Reforms

Julie Inman Grant, speaking on the prohibition's implementation, compared the online platform measures to past national initiatives on public health matters.

"Nations globally will emulate our lead like nations once followed our example on plain tobacco labels, gun reform, water safety," the Commissioner said. "How can you not follow a nation so visibly placing youth safety ahead of technology profits?"

She voiced certainty that technology companies possess the "technological capability" to comply with the new obligations.

Mixed Compliance from Platforms

While the prohibition began, tests revealed inconsistent compliance from various online platforms. Findings suggested that sites such as the streaming service and the forum site were still permitting profiles to be created with ages listed for users aged fourteen.

By contrast, other major apps including Instagram, TikTok, X, and Kick blocked registrations for under-16s. The Minister responsible, the Minister, noted the process was "evolving" and emphasised that platforms would be obligated to "regularly check" for underage users ongoing.

Other Domestic News

The day's news also featured several other notable stories across Australia:

• Coalition Migration Plans: Coalition MPs were scheduled to meet to discuss migration policy, with indications suggesting a emphasis on accelerating the processing of asylum seeker claims and increasing deportations.
• Aboriginal Child Removals: A new report found "obscene" rates of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people continue to be taken from their homes, advocating a systemic change to the family services framework.
• Mining Magnate Landing Pad Rejected: The City of Perth voted against a proposal by Gina Rinehart's company to install a private helicopter pad on its planned headquarters, citing disruption concerns and possible effects on new apartment development.
• New South Wales Fire Power Outage: Residents affected by a recent NSW bushfire questioned an energy provider's decision to proceed with a scheduled power outage during the fire event, which they said affected their capacity to protect their homes.

Global Reaction and Looking Ahead

This Australian ban has already attracted attention overseas. Ex- American figure the former Chicago mayor, who worked as senior adviser to President Barack Obama, shared a message calling for the U.S. to "follow suit" and adopt a similar ban.

As the new rule currently in force, its implementation, enforcement, and broader social effects will be carefully monitored both domestically and globally.