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In a major move for online policy, Australia has implemented a pioneering ban on social media access for individuals under the age of sixteen. The step has been championed by the country's leader as a "historic day" and predicted by the online safety chief as a measure the "world will follow."

An Historic Change Comes Into Effect

Speaking at Kirribilli House, Prime Minister the PM declared the ban signified Australia showing "enough is enough." He described it as a "globally pioneering initiative" that would "transform lives" for Australian children and provide families with "greater peace of mind."

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

eSafety Commissioner Makes Parallels to Previous Public Health Reforms

Julie Inman Grant, speaking on the ban's start, likened the social media measures to past national initiatives on public health issues.

"The world will follow like nations once adopted our lead on standardised cigarette packaging, gun reform, sun safety," the Commissioner said. "Why wouldn't you follow a country clearly placing youth safety ahead of technology revenue?"

Inman Grant expressed confidence that social media companies have the "technological ability" to adhere with the new requirements.

Varied Compliance from Social Media Companies

While the ban came into effect, tests showed inconsistent compliance from various online services. Reports suggested that platforms such as the streaming service and Reddit were at that time allowing profiles to be registered with birthdates listed for users aged fourteen.

In contrast, several prominent platforms including Instagram, Instagram, the platform formerly known as Twitter, and Kick prevented registrations for minors. Communications Minister responsible, Anika Wells, noted the process was "developing" and emphasised that companies would be required to "routinely check" for underage accounts continuously.

Additional National News

The day of news also included a number of other significant stories across the country:

• Coalition Migration Plans: Opposition MPs were set to meet to debate migration policy, with indications suggesting a focus on speeding up the handling of protection applications and increasing removals.
• Indigenous Children Protection: A new study found "alarmingly high" levels of Indigenous young people continue to be removed from their families, advocating a fundamental overhaul to the family services framework.
• Mining Magnate Helipad Rejected: The Perth City Council voted against a bid by Gina Rinehart's company to build a private helipad on its new office, citing disruption concerns and potential effects on future apartment construction.
• NSW Fire Power Outage: Homeowners impacted by a recent NSW wildfire questioned an power company's decision to go ahead with a scheduled power cut during the emergency, which they claimed hindered their capacity to defend their properties.

International Response and Looking Ahead

This national ban has also attracted attention overseas. Former U.S. official Rahm Emanuel, who served as senior adviser to former President Barack Obama, shared a video calling for the United States to "pick up its game" and adopt a comparable restriction.

As the policy now in force, its roll-out, enforcement, and broader societal impact will be closely monitored both at home and globally.