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During a major move for digital regulation, Australia has implemented a pioneering prohibition on social media access for users below the age of 16. The step has been championed by its nation's Prime Minister as a "proud day" and predicted by the eSafety chief as a reform the "world will follow."

A Historic Reform Takes Effect

Addressing reporters at Kirribilli House, the nation's leader the PM declared the policy represented Australia showing "enough is enough." He described it as a "world-leading initiative" that would "change lives" for the nation's children and provide parents with "more peace of mind."

"It is indeed a proud day to be Australian. For make no mistake – this change will change lives," he remarked. "It's a profound reform which will continue to echo around the globe."

Online Safety Commissioner Draws Parallels to Previous Public Health Reforms

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

"Nations globally will emulate our lead like countries once followed our lead on standardised cigarette packaging, gun reform, sun safety," she stated. "Why wouldn't you emulate a nation so visibly placing youth safety ahead of technology profits?"

Inman Grant voiced confidence that technology firms have the "technological capability" to comply with the new obligations.

Varied Adherence from Platforms

While the ban began, checks showed mixed adherence from different social media platforms. Reports suggested that platforms such as Twitch and Reddit were still allowing profiles to be created with birthdates listed for users aged fourteen.

In contrast, other major platforms including Instagram, TikTok, X, and Kick blocked sign-ups for minors. The Minister, Anika Wells, noted the system was "developing" and stressed that companies would be required to "routinely check" for underage users ongoing.

Additional Domestic News

This day's news also featured a number of other notable stories across the country:

• Coalition Migration Policy: Coalition MPs were set to meet to debate immigration policy, with reports suggesting a emphasis on accelerating the processing of protection claims and increasing removals.
• Aboriginal Children Protection: A recently released report found "obscene" levels of Indigenous children continue to be taken from their families, calling for a fundamental change to the family services framework.
• Gina Rinehart Landing Pad Blocked: The Perth City Council rejected a bid by Gina Rinehart's company to install a private helipad on its new headquarters, citing disruption issues and possible impacts on new housing development.
• NSW Fire Electricity Outage: Residents affected by a recent New South Wales bushfire criticised an power provider's choice to go ahead with a scheduled electricity cut during the fire event, which they said affected their capacity to protect their properties.

Global Reaction and The Future

The Australian ban has already attracted notice overseas. Former U.S. official the former Chicago mayor, who worked as senior adviser to former President Obama, posted a video urging the U.S. to "follow suit" and implement a comparable ban.

As the policy now in force, its roll-out, enforcement, and broader social impact will be carefully watched both at home and globally.