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During a major development for online policy, Australia has implemented a landmark ban on social media access for users under the age of 16. This move has been hailed by the nation's Prime Minister as a "proud day" and predicted by the online safety chief as a reform the "world will follow."

An Historic Reform Comes Into Force

Speaking at the Prime Minister's Sydney residence, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated the policy represented Australia showing "enough is enough." He characterised it as a "globally pioneering reform" that would "transform lives" for the nation's children and provide parents with "more peace of mind."

"It is indeed a historic day to be Australian. For make no mistake – this reform will alter lives," he said. "This is a profound reform which will continue to reverberate around the world."

eSafety Chief Draws Comparisons to Past Public Health Campaigns

Julie Inman Grant, commenting on the ban's start, compared the social media restrictions to historic Australian leadership on public health matters.

"Nations globally will follow like countries once followed our example on standardised cigarette packaging, gun control, water safety," she said. "How can you not emulate a nation clearly placing teen safety ahead of technology profits?"

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

Varied Adherence from Social Media Companies

While the ban began, checks showed mixed adherence from different online services. Findings suggested that platforms such as Twitch and Reddit were still permitting accounts to be registered with ages set for 14-year-olds.

By comparison, other prominent platforms including Instagram, TikTok, X, and a streaming rival prevented registrations for under-16s. Communications Minister, Anika Wells, acknowledged the system was "evolving" and stressed that platforms would be obligated to "routinely check" for underage accounts continuously.

Additional Domestic News

This day of news also featured a number of other significant stories across Australia:

• Coalition Migration Plans: Coalition MPs were set to confer to discuss migration approaches, with indications suggesting a emphasis on speeding up the processing of protection applications and expanding removals.
• Aboriginal Children Removals: A recently released study described "obscene" rates of Indigenous young people continue to be taken from their homes, advocating a systemic overhaul to the child protection system.
• Gina Rinehart Helipad Blocked: The Perth City Council rejected a bid by the mining billionaire's firm to build a corporate helipad on its planned headquarters, citing disruption issues and possible effects on new housing construction.
• New South Wales Fire Power Outage: Residents impacted by a recent NSW bushfire criticised an energy company's decision to proceed with a planned electricity outage during the emergency, which they claimed affected their capacity to defend their properties.

International Reaction and Looking Ahead

This national ban has also drawn attention overseas. Former U.S. official Rahm Emanuel, who worked as chief of staff to President Obama, posted a message calling for the U.S. to "pick up its game" and adopt a similar restriction.

As the policy now in effect, its implementation, compliance, and broader societal effects will be carefully monitored both at home and around the world.