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In a significant move for digital policy, Australia has enacted a landmark prohibition on social networking access for individuals under the age of 16. The step has been championed by its country's leader as a "proud day" and predicted by the online safety commissioner as a measure the "international community will follow."

A Pioneering Reform Comes Into Effect

Speaking at Kirribilli House, the nation's leader the PM stated the ban signified Australia showing "enough is enough." He characterised it as a "globally pioneering reform" that would "change lives" for Australian youth and provide families with "greater peace of mind."

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

Online Safety Commissioner Makes Parallels to Past Societal Campaigns

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

"Nations globally will follow like countries once adopted our example on standardised cigarette packaging, gun reform, water safety," she stated. "Why wouldn't you emulate a country clearly prioritising youth well-being ahead of tech revenue?"

She expressed certainty that technology companies have the "technological capability" to comply with the new requirements.

Varied Adherence from Platforms

As the ban came into effect, tests showed mixed compliance from various online platforms. Reports indicated that platforms such as Twitch and Reddit were still allowing profiles to be registered with ages listed for users aged fourteen.

In contrast, several major apps including Instagram, TikTok, the platform formerly known as Twitter, and Kick blocked registrations for under-16s. The Minister, the Minister, noted the system was "developing" and stressed that companies would be obligated to "regularly check" for underage users ongoing.

Additional National News

This day of news also included several unrelated significant developments across the country:

• Opposition Migration Plans: Coalition MPs were set to meet to discuss immigration policy, with reports pointing to a focus on accelerating the handling of asylum seeker applications and expanding deportations.
• Aboriginal Children Protection: A new study described "alarmingly high" levels of Indigenous children still taken from their families, calling for a systemic overhaul to the family services system.
• Gina Rinehart Helipad Rejected: The City of Perth rejected a proposal by Gina Rinehart's company to install a private helipad on its new office, citing noise issues and possible effects on future housing construction.
• NSW Bushfire Electricity Cut: Homeowners affected by a last week's NSW bushfire questioned an power company's decision to go ahead with a planned power cut during the emergency, which they claimed affected their capacity to protect their properties.

Global Reaction and Looking Ahead

This national ban has already drawn attention internationally. Ex- U.S. official the former Chicago mayor, who worked as chief of staff to former President Barack Obama, shared a video urging the U.S. to "pick up its game" and implement a similar restriction.

With the new rule currently in force, its roll-out, enforcement, and wider social impact will be carefully monitored both at home and around the world.