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In a significant move for digital regulation, the nation has enacted a landmark prohibition on social networking use for users under the age of sixteen. This step has been hailed by the country's Prime Minister as a "historic day" and predicted by the online safety chief as a measure the "world will follow."

A Pioneering Reform Comes Into Force

Speaking at Kirribilli House, Prime Minister the PM stated the policy represented Australia showing "the line has been drawn." He described it as a "world-leading initiative" that would "transform lives" for Australian youth and provide families with "more peace of mind."

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

Online Safety Commissioner Draws Parallels to Past Public Health Reforms

Julie Inman Grant, commenting on the ban's start, compared the online platform measures to past Australian initiatives on public health matters.

"Nations globally will emulate our lead like countries once adopted our lead on plain cigarette labels, gun control, water safety," she stated. "How can you not follow a country clearly prioritising youth safety ahead of technology profits?"

Inman Grant expressed certainty that social media companies have the "technical capability" to comply with the new obligations.

Mixed Adherence from Social Media Companies

While the prohibition came into effect, checks showed inconsistent compliance from different online platforms. Reports suggested that sites such as Twitch and the forum site were at that time permitting profiles to be created with birthdates listed for 14-year-olds.

By contrast, other major platforms including TikTok, TikTok, X, and a streaming rival prevented registrations for minors. The Minister responsible, Anika Wells, noted the system was "evolving" and emphasised that companies would be required to "routinely check" for minor accounts ongoing.

Additional Domestic Developments

The day of events also featured a number of other significant developments across Australia:

• Opposition Immigration Policy: Opposition MPs were scheduled to meet to discuss immigration policy, with reports suggesting a focus on speeding up the handling of asylum seeker claims and expanding removals.
• Indigenous Children Removals: A recently released study found "obscene" rates of Indigenous young people continue to be taken from their homes, calling for a fundamental overhaul to the family services system.
• Gina Rinehart Helipad 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 possible impacts on new housing construction.
• NSW Bushfire Electricity Cut: Homeowners impacted by a last week's New South Wales bushfire criticised an energy company's decision to proceed with a scheduled power cut during the fire event, which they claimed hindered their ability to defend their properties.

International Reaction and Looking Ahead

The national ban has already drawn attention internationally. Former American figure the former Chicago mayor, who worked as senior adviser to former President Obama, posted a video calling for the United States to "pick up its game" and implement a comparable restriction.

As the policy now in force, its roll-out, compliance, and wider societal impact will be closely watched both at home and globally.