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During a major move for digital policy, Australia has implemented a landmark ban on social media access for individuals under the age of 16. This step has been championed by its country's leader as a "historic day" and predicted by the online safety commissioner as a measure the "world will follow."

A Historic Reform Comes Into Effect

Speaking at Kirribilli House, the nation's leader Anthony Albanese stated the ban represented Australia demonstrating "enough is enough." He described it as a "globally pioneering reform" that would "change lives" for Australian children and offer families with "more peace of mind."

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

Online Safety Commissioner Makes Parallels to Previous Public Health Campaigns

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

"The world will emulate our lead like countries once followed our example on plain cigarette packaging, gun reform, sun safety," the Commissioner stated. "How can you not emulate a nation clearly prioritising youth well-being ahead of technology revenue?"

Inman Grant expressed confidence that social media companies possess the "technological ability" to comply with the new requirements.

Mixed Compliance from Social Media Companies

As the ban came into effect, checks revealed mixed compliance from different social media services. Reports suggested that sites such as the streaming service and Reddit were still permitting accounts to be registered with ages set for 14-year-olds.

In comparison, several prominent apps including TikTok, TikTok, X, and a streaming rival blocked sign-ups for minors. Communications Minister responsible, the Minister, acknowledged the process was "developing" and emphasised that companies would be obligated to "routinely check" for minor accounts continuously.

Other Domestic News

The day's events also featured several unrelated notable developments across Australia:

• Coalition Migration Plans: Opposition MPs were set to meet to discuss immigration policy, with indications pointing to a emphasis on speeding up the processing of asylum seeker applications and increasing removals.
• Aboriginal Children Protection: A new report found "obscene" levels of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children still removed from their homes, advocating a fundamental change to the child protection system.
• Gina Rinehart Helipad Rejected: The Perth City Council rejected a proposal by the mining billionaire's company to build a corporate helicopter pad on its new office, citing noise concerns and possible impacts on new apartment development.
• New South Wales Bushfire Electricity Cut: Homeowners impacted by a last week's NSW bushfire criticised an power provider's choice to go ahead with a scheduled electricity outage during the emergency, which they said hindered their ability to defend their properties.

International Response and Looking Ahead

The Australian measure has already attracted attention internationally. Ex- U.S. official the former Chicago mayor, who served as senior adviser to former President Obama, posted a video urging the United States to "follow suit" and implement a similar restriction.

As the policy now in effect, its implementation, compliance, and wider social effects will be closely watched both domestically and globally.