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In a major move for digital regulation, the nation has enacted a landmark ban on social media access for individuals under the age of 16. The move has been championed by its country's Prime Minister as a "historic day" and heralded by the eSafety commissioner as a reform the "world will follow."

An Pioneering Reform Comes Into Effect

Speaking at the Prime Minister's Sydney residence, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese declared the ban represented Australia showing "enough is enough." He described it as a "globally pioneering reform" that would "change lives" for Australian youth and provide parents with "greater peace of mind."

"It is indeed a proud day to be Australian. Because make no mistake – this change will alter lives," the Prime Minister said. "This is a profound measure which will continue to reverberate around the world."

eSafety Commissioner Draws Comparisons to Previous Public Health Campaigns

The eSafety Commissioner, speaking on the prohibition's start, likened the social media measures to historic Australian leadership on public health matters.

"Nations globally will emulate our lead like countries once followed our lead on standardised cigarette labels, gun control, sun safety," the Commissioner stated. "Why wouldn't you follow a country clearly placing youth well-being ahead of technology revenue?"

Inman Grant voiced certainty that technology firms have the "technological capability" to adhere with the new requirements.

Mixed Compliance from Social Media Companies

As the prohibition came into effect, checks showed inconsistent compliance from different online platforms. Reports indicated that sites such as Twitch and Reddit were still permitting profiles to be registered with birthdates listed for 14-year-olds.

In contrast, other prominent platforms including TikTok, TikTok, the platform formerly known as Twitter, and a streaming rival prevented registrations for under-16s. The Minister responsible, Anika Wells, acknowledged the system was "developing" and stressed that companies would be obligated to "routinely check" for minor users continuously.

Additional National News

The day of news also featured a number of other notable developments across the country:

• Coalition Migration Policy: Coalition MPs were scheduled to meet to discuss immigration policy, with reports suggesting a emphasis on speeding up the handling of asylum seeker applications and expanding deportations.
• Aboriginal Children Protection: A recently released study described "alarmingly high" rates of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children still removed from their families, advocating a systemic overhaul to the family services framework.
• Mining Magnate Landing Pad Rejected: The Perth City Council rejected a bid by the mining billionaire's firm to install a corporate helicopter pad on its new headquarters, citing disruption concerns and possible impacts on future apartment development.
• NSW Fire Power Cut: Residents affected by a recent New South Wales bushfire criticised an energy provider's decision to proceed with a scheduled power cut during the fire event, which they claimed hindered their ability to defend their properties.

Global Reaction and Looking Ahead

This Australian measure has also attracted attention overseas. Former U.S. official Rahm Emanuel, who served as chief of staff to former President Obama, shared a video calling for the United States to "pick up its game" and implement a comparable restriction.

With the policy now in force, its implementation, compliance, and broader social effects will be closely watched both domestically and around the world.