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In a major development for digital regulation, the nation has enacted a landmark ban on social media use for individuals under the age of 16. This move has been hailed by the nation's leader as a "historic day" and predicted by the online safety chief as a measure the "international community will follow."

An Historic Change Takes Effect

Addressing reporters at the Prime Minister's Sydney residence, Prime Minister the PM declared the ban signified Australia showing "enough is enough." He described it as a "globally pioneering reform" that would "change lives" for the nation's children and provide families with "greater peace of mind."

"This is indeed a proud day to be Australian. Because make no mistake – this reform will change lives," the Prime Minister remarked. "It's a profound reform which will continue to reverberate around the world."

Online Safety Commissioner Makes Parallels to Past Societal Campaigns

Julie Inman Grant, commenting on the prohibition's implementation, likened the social media measures to historic national leadership on public health issues.

"Nations globally will emulate our lead like countries once adopted our lead on standardised cigarette packaging, gun reform, sun safety," the Commissioner stated. "Why wouldn't you emulate a country clearly placing youth well-being ahead of technology profits?"

Inman Grant expressed confidence that social media firms have the "technological capability" to comply with the new requirements.

Mixed Compliance from Social Media Companies

While the ban began, tests showed mixed adherence from various social media platforms. Findings indicated that sites such as the streaming service and Reddit were still allowing accounts to be registered with birthdates listed for 14-year-olds.

By contrast, other prominent platforms including TikTok, TikTok, X, and Kick prevented sign-ups for minors. Communications Minister responsible, the Minister, acknowledged the process was "developing" and emphasised that companies would be required to "regularly check" for minor accounts continuously.

Other Domestic Developments

This day's news also featured several unrelated notable stories across Australia:

• Coalition Migration Policy: Opposition MPs were scheduled to confer to discuss immigration approaches, with reports suggesting a focus on accelerating the handling of protection applications and increasing removals.
• Indigenous Child Removals: A recently released report described "alarmingly high" levels of Indigenous young people still removed from their homes, calling for a systemic overhaul to the family services framework.
• Gina Rinehart Helipad Blocked: The City of Perth voted against a proposal by the mining billionaire's company to install a corporate helipad on its new headquarters, citing disruption issues and potential impacts on future housing construction.
• NSW Fire Electricity Cut: Homeowners affected by a last week's NSW wildfire criticised an power provider's choice to proceed with a scheduled electricity outage during the fire event, which they said affected their capacity to protect their properties.

Global Response and Looking Ahead

The Australian ban has already attracted attention internationally. Former U.S. figure the former Chicago mayor, who served as senior adviser to former President Obama, posted a message urging the U.S. to "pick up its game" and adopt a comparable restriction.

As the new rule currently in force, its roll-out, enforcement, and wider societal impact will be closely watched both domestically and globally.