🔗 Share this article

In a significant development for online regulation, Australia has enacted a pioneering prohibition on social media use for users below the age of sixteen. The move has been championed by its nation's leader as a "proud day" and heralded by the eSafety chief as a reform the "international community will follow."

An Pioneering Change Comes Into Effect

Addressing reporters at the Prime Minister's Sydney residence, the nation's leader the PM declared the ban represented Australia demonstrating "the line has been drawn." He characterised it as a "globally pioneering reform" that would "change lives" for Australian children and offer families with "greater peace of mind."

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

Online Safety Commissioner Draws Comparisons to Past Public Health Campaigns

The eSafety Commissioner, speaking on the ban's implementation, likened the social media restrictions to past Australian leadership on societal issues.

"Nations globally will follow like nations once followed our example on standardised tobacco packaging, gun control, water safety," she said. "How can you not emulate a nation so visibly prioritising teen safety ahead of technology profits?"

Inman Grant voiced certainty that technology companies possess the "technological capability" to adhere with the new obligations.

Mixed Adherence from Social Media Companies

As the ban began, checks revealed mixed adherence from various online platforms. Reports indicated that platforms such as Twitch and Reddit were at that time allowing profiles to be registered with birthdates listed for 14-year-olds.

In comparison, several major platforms including TikTok, Instagram, the platform formerly known as Twitter, and a streaming rival prevented sign-ups for under-16s. The Minister responsible, Anika Wells, acknowledged the system was "evolving" and emphasised that companies would be obligated to "routinely check" for underage users continuously.

Additional National Developments

This day of events also featured several other significant stories across the country:

• Coalition Immigration Policy: Coalition MPs were set to meet to discuss migration policy, with indications suggesting a focus on accelerating the processing of protection claims and increasing removals.
• Aboriginal Children Removals: A recently released report found "obscene" rates of Indigenous children continue to be removed from their homes, advocating a systemic change to the family services system.
• Gina Rinehart Landing Pad Rejected: 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 new apartment construction.
• New South Wales Fire Electricity Cut: Homeowners impacted by a last week's NSW bushfire questioned an power company's choice to go ahead with a scheduled power outage during the fire event, which they said hindered their capacity to defend their homes.

International Reaction and Looking Ahead

This national ban has also drawn attention overseas. Ex- American official the former Chicago mayor, who worked as senior adviser to former President Barack Obama, posted a message calling for the U.S. to "follow suit" and adopt a similar ban.

As the new rule currently in force, its implementation, compliance, and broader societal impact will be closely monitored both at home and around the world.