🔗 Share this article

In a major move for digital regulation, Australia has enacted a pioneering ban on social media access for individuals under the age of 16. The step has been championed by the nation's Prime Minister as a "historic day" and predicted by the eSafety commissioner as a measure the "world will follow."

A Historic Reform Takes Force

Speaking at the Prime Minister's Sydney residence, Prime Minister the PM declared the policy signified Australia showing "the line has been drawn." He characterised it as a "world-leading reform" that would "change lives" for Australian youth and offer families with "more peace of mind."

"It is indeed a historic day to be Australian. For make no mistake – this reform will change lives," the Prime Minister said. "It's a profound measure which will continue to echo around the world."

Online Safety Chief Draws Comparisons to Previous Societal Campaigns

Julie Inman Grant, commenting on the ban's implementation, compared the online platform measures to past national initiatives on public health issues.

"The world will emulate our lead like countries once adopted our example on standardised tobacco packaging, gun reform, sun safety," the Commissioner said. "Why wouldn't you follow a nation so visibly prioritising youth safety ahead of technology profits?"

Inman Grant expressed certainty that technology firms possess the "technical ability" to adhere with the new requirements.

Mixed Adherence from Social Media Companies

As the ban began, checks revealed mixed adherence from various online services. Reports suggested that sites such as the streaming service and the forum site were still allowing profiles to be registered with birthdates listed for 14-year-olds.

In contrast, other major platforms including TikTok, TikTok, the platform formerly known as Twitter, and a streaming rival prevented registrations for minors. Communications Minister responsible, Anika Wells, acknowledged the system was "developing" and stressed that platforms would be required to "regularly check" for underage accounts continuously.

Other National News

This day's events also included several other notable developments across the country:

• Opposition Migration Plans: Coalition MPs were set to meet to debate migration policy, with indications suggesting a focus on accelerating the processing of protection claims and expanding removals.
• Aboriginal Child Protection: A new report described "obscene" rates of Indigenous children continue to be taken from their families, advocating a systemic overhaul to the family services framework.
• Mining Magnate Helipad Rejected: The City of Perth rejected a bid by Gina Rinehart's firm to build a corporate helicopter pad on its planned office, citing disruption issues and potential effects on future apartment construction.
• New South Wales Fire Power Cut: Homeowners impacted by a last week's New South Wales bushfire questioned an power provider's choice to proceed with a planned electricity outage during the emergency, which they said hindered their capacity to protect their homes.

Global Response and Looking Ahead

This national ban has also attracted attention overseas. Former American figure the former Chicago mayor, who served as chief of staff to former President Obama, posted a message urging the United States to "pick up its game" and implement a similar ban.

As the policy now in force, its roll-out, compliance, and broader societal effects will be closely watched both domestically and around the world.