🔗 Share this article

In a major move for online regulation, the nation has implemented a landmark prohibition on social media use for users under the age of 16. The move has been hailed by the nation's Prime Minister as a "proud day" and predicted by the eSafety commissioner as a measure the "world will follow."

An Historic Change Takes Force

Speaking at Kirribilli House, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese declared the ban signified Australia demonstrating "the line has been drawn." He characterised it as a "world-leading reform" that would "change lives" for Australian children and provide families with "greater peace of mind."

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

Online Safety Commissioner Draws Parallels to Past Societal Campaigns

The eSafety Commissioner, speaking on the prohibition's implementation, likened the online platform measures to historic national initiatives on societal issues.

"The world will follow like nations once adopted our example on plain tobacco packaging, gun control, water safety," she said. "Why wouldn't you follow a nation so visibly placing youth well-being ahead of tech profits?"

She voiced certainty that technology companies possess the "technological capability" to comply with the new requirements.

Varied Compliance from Platforms

While the prohibition came into effect, tests showed mixed compliance from various online services. Reports suggested that sites such as the streaming service and Reddit were still allowing profiles to be registered with birthdates listed for 14-year-olds.

By comparison, other prominent apps including TikTok, TikTok, the platform formerly known as Twitter, and a streaming rival prevented sign-ups for minors. The Minister, Anika Wells, noted the system was "developing" and emphasised that platforms would be obligated to "routinely check" for underage users ongoing.

Other National Developments

This day's events also included several unrelated notable stories across Australia:

• Coalition Immigration Plans: Coalition MPs were scheduled to confer to debate migration approaches, with reports suggesting a emphasis on speeding up the handling of protection applications and expanding removals.
• Aboriginal Child Protection: A new report described "obscene" levels of Indigenous young people still removed from their homes, calling for a systemic change to the child protection system.
• Gina Rinehart Landing Pad Rejected: The City of Perth rejected a bid by Gina Rinehart's company to install a private helipad on its new headquarters, citing noise issues and potential impacts on future housing development.
• New South Wales Bushfire Power Cut: Homeowners impacted by a last week's NSW bushfire criticised an power provider's decision to proceed with a planned power cut during the fire event, which they said hindered their capacity to protect their homes.

International Reaction and Looking Ahead

The Australian measure has already attracted notice internationally. Former American official Rahm Emanuel, who worked as senior adviser to former President Barack Obama, posted a message urging the U.S. to "pick up its game" and implement a similar restriction.

As the policy currently in effect, its roll-out, compliance, and wider social impact will be closely watched both domestically and around the world.