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In a major move for online policy, Australia has enacted a landmark ban on social media access for individuals under the age of 16. This step has been hailed by its country's Prime Minister as a "proud day" and predicted by the online safety commissioner as a reform the "world will follow."

An Historic Reform Takes Effect

Addressing reporters at Kirribilli House, the nation's leader the PM declared the policy signified Australia showing "the line has been drawn." He characterised it as a "globally pioneering initiative" that would "transform lives" for the nation's children and provide families with "more peace of mind."

"It is indeed a historic day to be Australian. For make no mistake – this reform will alter lives," he remarked. "It's a profound reform which will continue to echo around the globe."

eSafety Commissioner Makes Parallels to Previous Societal Reforms

Julie Inman Grant, commenting on the prohibition's start, compared the online platform measures to past Australian leadership on societal issues.

"The world will emulate our lead like countries once followed our example on standardised tobacco packaging, gun control, sun safety," she said. "Why wouldn't you follow a nation clearly prioritising youth well-being ahead of technology profits?"

Inman Grant voiced confidence that technology companies have the "technical ability" to adhere with the new obligations.

Mixed Adherence from Platforms

While the ban began, checks showed inconsistent adherence from various online platforms. Findings indicated that platforms such as the streaming service and the forum site were at that time permitting accounts to be registered with ages set for 14-year-olds.

In comparison, several major platforms including Instagram, TikTok, X, and Kick prevented registrations for under-16s. The Minister, the Minister, noted the process was "developing" and emphasised that platforms would be obligated to "routinely check" for minor accounts ongoing.

Other National News

The day's news also featured several other significant developments across Australia:

• Coalition Immigration Policy: Opposition MPs were set to confer to discuss immigration approaches, with indications pointing to a focus on speeding up the handling of protection applications and increasing deportations.
• Aboriginal Child Removals: A recently released report described "alarmingly high" levels of Indigenous children continue to be removed from their homes, calling for a fundamental overhaul to the family services system.
• Gina Rinehart Landing Pad Blocked: The City of Perth rejected a bid by the mining billionaire's company to build a private helicopter pad on its new headquarters, citing noise issues and possible impacts on future housing construction.
• NSW Bushfire Power Cut: Homeowners impacted by a last week's NSW bushfire criticised an power provider's decision to go ahead with a scheduled power outage during the emergency, which they claimed affected their ability to protect their properties.

Global Reaction and The Future

The national ban has also drawn notice internationally. Ex- U.S. official the former Chicago mayor, who served as senior adviser to former President Obama, posted a video urging the U.S. to "follow suit" and adopt a comparable restriction.

As the policy now in force, its implementation, enforcement, and wider social impact will be closely monitored both at home and around the world.