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During a major development for digital regulation, the nation has enacted a landmark prohibition on social networking access for users below the age of 16. This move has been championed by its country's Prime Minister as a "historic day" and predicted by the online safety commissioner as a reform the "international community will follow."

A Historic Change Takes Force

Addressing reporters at the Prime Minister's Sydney residence, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated the policy represented Australia showing "enough is enough." He described it as a "globally pioneering initiative" that would "transform lives" for Australian youth and provide families with "more peace of mind."

"This is indeed a proud day to be Australian. Because make no mistake – this reform will change lives," the Prime Minister remarked. "This is a profound reform which will continue to echo around the world."

eSafety Commissioner Makes Comparisons to Past Public Health Campaigns

The eSafety Commissioner, commenting on the ban's start, compared the social media restrictions to past Australian initiatives on public health matters.

"The world will emulate our lead like nations once followed our example on standardised tobacco packaging, gun control, sun safety," she said. "How can you not follow a country clearly placing youth well-being ahead of tech profits?"

She voiced confidence that social media firms possess the "technical ability" to adhere with the new obligations.

Mixed Compliance from Social Media Companies

As the prohibition began, checks showed mixed compliance from various social media platforms. Findings indicated that sites such as the streaming service and Reddit were at that time allowing profiles to be registered with ages set for 14-year-olds.

In contrast, several prominent apps including TikTok, TikTok, X, and Kick prevented registrations for under-16s. Communications Minister, the Minister, noted the system was "developing" and emphasised that companies would be required to "routinely check" for minor users ongoing.

Other National News

This day's events also featured several unrelated significant developments across the country:

• Opposition Migration Policy: Coalition MPs were scheduled to meet to debate immigration approaches, with indications suggesting a emphasis on accelerating the handling of asylum seeker claims and expanding removals.
• Aboriginal Children Removals: A new report found "obscene" levels of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children continue to be removed from their homes, calling for a systemic overhaul to the child protection system.
• Gina Rinehart Helipad Rejected: The City of Perth rejected a bid by Gina Rinehart's firm to install a corporate helipad on its planned headquarters, citing disruption concerns and potential effects on future housing construction.
• NSW Bushfire Power Cut: Residents impacted by a recent New South Wales bushfire criticised an energy company's decision to go ahead with a planned power cut during the emergency, which they said hindered their capacity to protect their properties.

Global Response and The Future

The Australian ban has also attracted notice internationally. Ex- U.S. official Rahm Emanuel, who worked as chief of staff to former President Barack Obama, posted a video calling for the U.S. to "pick up its game" and implement a comparable ban.

As the policy now in force, its roll-out, compliance, and broader social effects will be closely watched both at home and around the world.