🔗 Share this article

During a significant move for digital policy, the nation has implemented a landmark ban on social media use for individuals below the age of 16. This step has been hailed by its country's Prime Minister as a "proud day" and heralded by the eSafety commissioner as a measure the "world will follow."

A Pioneering Reform Comes Into Force

Addressing reporters at Kirribilli House, Prime Minister the PM declared the policy represented Australia showing "the line has been drawn." He characterised it as a "globally pioneering reform" that would "transform lives" for the nation's youth and offer parents with "greater peace of mind."

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

eSafety Commissioner Draws Parallels to Past Public Health Reforms

The eSafety Commissioner, speaking on the ban's start, compared the social media measures to past national leadership on public health matters.

"The world will follow like countries once adopted our lead on plain tobacco packaging, gun reform, water safety," the Commissioner stated. "How can you not emulate a nation so visibly prioritising teen safety ahead of tech revenue?"

Inman Grant voiced confidence that social media firms have the "technical ability" to comply with the new obligations.

Mixed Adherence from Social Media Companies

As the prohibition came into effect, checks showed mixed adherence from various social media services. Findings suggested that platforms such as Twitch and Reddit were still allowing profiles to be registered with birthdates set for users aged fourteen.

In comparison, other prominent apps including Instagram, TikTok, the platform formerly known as Twitter, and a streaming rival blocked sign-ups for under-16s. The Minister, Anika Wells, noted the system was "developing" and stressed that companies would be obligated to "routinely check" for minor accounts continuously.

Other National News

This day's events also featured a number of unrelated significant developments across Australia:

• Coalition Migration Plans: Coalition MPs were scheduled to confer to debate migration policy, with indications pointing to a emphasis on accelerating the handling of protection applications and expanding deportations.
• Indigenous Children Removals: A recently released study described "alarmingly high" rates of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children still taken from their homes, calling for a systemic change to the family services framework.
• Gina Rinehart Landing Pad Rejected: The City of Perth voted against a proposal by Gina Rinehart's firm to install a corporate helipad on its planned headquarters, citing noise concerns and possible effects on future apartment construction.
• NSW Bushfire Electricity Cut: Residents impacted by a last week's New South Wales wildfire criticised an energy provider's decision to go ahead with a planned electricity cut during the fire event, which they said affected their ability to defend their homes.

Global Response and Looking Ahead

This Australian ban has already drawn notice overseas. Ex- American official the former Chicago mayor, who served as chief of staff to former President Barack Obama, posted a video urging the U.S. to "follow suit" and implement a similar ban.

With the new rule now in effect, its roll-out, compliance, and broader social effects will be closely monitored both at home and globally.