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During a significant development for online policy, the nation has enacted a landmark ban on social media use for users under the age of 16. The step has been hailed by its nation's leader as a "historic day" and predicted by the online safety chief as a measure the "world will follow."

An Historic Change Takes Effect

Addressing reporters at Kirribilli House, Prime Minister the PM declared the ban signified Australia showing "the line has been drawn." He described it as a "world-leading reform" that would "transform lives" for the nation's youth and provide families with "greater peace of mind."

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

Online Safety Chief Draws Parallels to Past Public Health Campaigns

The eSafety Commissioner, speaking on the prohibition's start, likened the social media restrictions to past national leadership on societal matters.

"Nations globally will emulate our lead like countries once followed our example on standardised tobacco packaging, firearms reform, water safety," she stated. "How can you not emulate a country so visibly prioritising teen safety ahead of tech profits?"

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

Varied Adherence from Platforms

As the prohibition began, checks showed mixed adherence from different online services. Findings suggested that sites such as the streaming service and the forum site were still permitting profiles to be created with birthdates set for users aged fourteen.

By contrast, several prominent apps including TikTok, Instagram, X, and Kick prevented sign-ups for minors. The Minister, the Minister, acknowledged the process was "evolving" and emphasised that companies would be required to "routinely check" for minor accounts ongoing.

Additional Domestic News

The day of events also featured several unrelated notable developments across Australia:

• Opposition Immigration Policy: Coalition MPs were scheduled to confer to discuss migration approaches, with indications pointing to a focus on speeding up the handling of asylum seeker claims and expanding deportations.
• Aboriginal Child Protection: A new study described "alarmingly high" levels of Indigenous children continue to be removed from their homes, advocating a fundamental overhaul to the family services system.
• Gina Rinehart Helipad Blocked: The City of Perth rejected a bid by the mining billionaire's firm to install a corporate helipad on its planned headquarters, citing disruption issues and potential impacts on new housing construction.
• NSW Bushfire Electricity Cut: Homeowners impacted by a last week's NSW bushfire questioned an power company's decision to go ahead with a scheduled power outage during the fire event, which they claimed affected their ability to protect their homes.

Global Reaction and The Future

This Australian measure has also attracted attention overseas. Former U.S. figure the former Chicago mayor, who served as chief of staff to President Barack Obama, shared a video urging the U.S. to "follow suit" and implement a comparable ban.

As the new rule currently in force, its implementation, compliance, and wider societal impact will be closely watched both domestically and around the world.