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In a major move for digital regulation, Australia has enacted a pioneering prohibition on social media access for users below the age of sixteen. This move has been championed by the country's Prime Minister as a "historic day" and predicted by the online safety chief as a measure the "international community will follow."

An Pioneering Change Comes Into Effect

Addressing reporters at Kirribilli House, Prime Minister the PM stated the ban signified Australia demonstrating "the line has been drawn." He characterised it as a "world-leading initiative" that would "transform lives" for Australian youth and provide parents with "greater peace of mind."

"It is indeed a historic day to be Australian. For make no mistake – this change will change lives," he remarked. "It's a significant measure which will continue to reverberate around the world."

eSafety Chief Makes Comparisons to Previous Societal Campaigns

Julie Inman Grant, commenting on the ban's start, compared the social media restrictions to past national leadership on societal issues.

"The world will follow like countries once followed our lead on plain cigarette labels, gun reform, water safety," the Commissioner said. "How can you not emulate a nation so visibly placing teen well-being ahead of tech revenue?"

She voiced confidence that technology companies have the "technological capability" to comply with the new requirements.

Varied Compliance from Platforms

While the prohibition came into effect, checks revealed inconsistent compliance from various online services. Reports indicated that sites such as Twitch and Reddit were at that time allowing profiles to be created with birthdates listed for 14-year-olds.

By comparison, several major apps including Instagram, TikTok, the platform formerly known as Twitter, and Kick blocked sign-ups for minors. Communications Minister responsible, the Minister, acknowledged the system was "developing" and stressed that platforms would be obligated to "routinely check" for underage accounts continuously.

Additional Domestic News

This day of events also included a number of other significant stories across the country:

• Opposition Immigration Policy: Coalition MPs were scheduled to confer to discuss immigration approaches, with reports pointing to a focus on accelerating the handling of protection claims and expanding removals.
• Indigenous Child Removals: A new report found "alarmingly high" levels of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children continue to be removed from their families, calling for a systemic change to the child protection system.
• Mining Magnate Helipad Rejected: The Perth City Council voted against a proposal by the mining billionaire's company to install a corporate helicopter pad on its new office, citing noise concerns and potential impacts on future housing construction.
• NSW Bushfire Power Outage: Residents impacted by a last week's NSW wildfire criticised an energy company's decision to go ahead with a scheduled electricity cut during the emergency, which they claimed affected their ability to protect their homes.

International Reaction and Looking Ahead

This national measure has also attracted attention internationally. Former American official Rahm Emanuel, who worked as chief of staff to former President Barack Obama, posted a message calling for the United States to "follow suit" and implement a comparable restriction.

With the policy currently in effect, its implementation, compliance, and broader societal effects will be closely watched both at home and globally.