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In a significant move for online regulation, Australia has enacted a pioneering prohibition on social media use for users under the age of sixteen. This step has been hailed by the country's leader as a "proud day" and heralded by the online safety commissioner as a reform the "international community will follow."

A Historic Change Comes Into Effect

Speaking at the Prime Minister's Sydney residence, Prime Minister the PM declared the policy signified Australia showing "the line has been drawn." He described it as a "globally pioneering initiative" that would "change lives" for the nation's youth and offer parents with "more peace of mind."

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

Online Safety Commissioner Makes Comparisons to Past Public Health Campaigns

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

"Nations globally will follow like countries once followed our example on plain cigarette labels, gun control, water safety," the Commissioner said. "How can you not follow a country clearly placing youth safety ahead of technology profits?"

She expressed confidence that social media firms have the "technical capability" to comply with the new obligations.

Mixed Adherence from Platforms

While the ban began, tests showed inconsistent compliance from various social media services. Reports indicated that sites such as Twitch and the forum site were still permitting accounts to be registered with birthdates set for users aged fourteen.

By contrast, several major platforms including TikTok, Instagram, X, and a streaming rival prevented registrations for minors. Communications Minister, Anika Wells, noted the system was "developing" and emphasised that platforms would be obligated to "regularly check" for minor users ongoing.

Additional National News

The day's events also featured several other notable stories across the country:

• Opposition Immigration Policy: Coalition MPs were set to meet to discuss immigration policy, with indications suggesting a emphasis on accelerating the processing of protection applications and increasing removals.
• Indigenous Child Protection: A recently released report found "obscene" rates of Indigenous children continue to be removed from their families, advocating a systemic change to the child protection framework.
• Gina Rinehart Landing Pad Blocked: The City of Perth voted against a proposal by Gina Rinehart's firm to install a private helipad on its new headquarters, citing noise issues and possible effects on new housing construction.
• NSW Bushfire Electricity Outage: Residents affected by a recent NSW bushfire criticised an energy provider's choice to proceed with a planned power cut during the fire event, which they claimed hindered their ability to defend their properties.

International Response and Looking Ahead

This Australian ban has already attracted notice overseas. Former American figure the former Chicago mayor, who worked as senior adviser to former President Barack Obama, posted a message calling for the United States to "follow suit" and implement a comparable restriction.

As the new rule now in effect, its implementation, compliance, and wider societal impact will be carefully monitored both domestically and around the world.