🔗 Share this article

In a major move for digital policy, Australia has implemented a landmark prohibition on social media use for individuals below the age of 16. This step has been hailed by the country's Prime Minister as a "proud day" and predicted by the eSafety commissioner as a measure the "world will follow."

An Pioneering Reform Comes Into Force

Addressing reporters at the Prime Minister's Sydney residence, Prime Minister the PM declared the policy signified Australia showing "the line has been drawn." He characterised it as a "world-leading initiative" that would "transform lives" for Australian youth and provide families with "greater peace of mind."

"This is indeed a historic day to be Australian. For make no mistake – this reform will alter lives," the Prime Minister said. "It's a significant reform which will continue to echo around the globe."

Online Safety Commissioner Draws Comparisons to Past Societal Reforms

Julie Inman Grant, speaking on the ban's implementation, compared the online platform measures to past Australian leadership on public health matters.

"Nations globally will emulate our lead like nations once followed our lead on plain tobacco packaging, firearms control, water safety," the Commissioner said. "How can you not follow a country so visibly placing youth safety ahead of technology profits?"

Inman Grant voiced confidence that technology firms possess the "technological ability" to adhere with the new requirements.

Varied Adherence from Platforms

As the ban began, checks showed mixed adherence from various social media platforms. Reports indicated that platforms such as the streaming service and Reddit were at that time permitting profiles to be created with ages listed for 14-year-olds.

By comparison, other major apps including TikTok, TikTok, X, and Kick prevented registrations for minors. The Minister responsible, the Minister, noted the process was "developing" and emphasised that platforms would be required to "regularly check" for minor accounts continuously.

Additional National Developments

The day's events also included a number of other notable stories across Australia:

• Coalition Immigration Plans: Coalition MPs were set to meet to discuss immigration approaches, with reports suggesting a emphasis on speeding up the processing of asylum seeker applications and increasing removals.
• Indigenous Children Protection: A recently released study found "obscene" rates of Indigenous children still removed from their homes, calling for a systemic change to the child protection system.
• Mining Magnate Helipad Blocked: The Perth City Council voted against a bid by Gina Rinehart's firm to build a private helicopter pad on its planned office, citing noise concerns and possible effects on future housing development.
• New South Wales Bushfire Electricity Outage: Homeowners affected by a last week's New South Wales wildfire questioned an power provider's choice to go ahead with a planned electricity cut during the fire event, which they said hindered their capacity to defend their homes.

International Response and The Future

This Australian ban has also drawn attention internationally. Former U.S. figure Rahm Emanuel, who served as chief of staff to former President Obama, posted a video urging the U.S. to "pick up its game" and implement a similar restriction.

With the policy now in effect, its implementation, enforcement, and broader societal effects will be closely watched both at home and around the world.