🔗 Share this article Prime Minister Hails a 'Proud Day' as eSafety Chief Forecasts 'Globe Will Follow Our Lead'. During a significant move for online regulation, Australia has implemented a pioneering ban on social networking use for individuals below the age of sixteen. This step has been hailed by the country's Prime Minister as a "historic day" and predicted by the online safety chief as a measure the "international community will follow." An Pioneering Reform Comes Into Effect Addressing reporters at Kirribilli House, the nation's leader the PM declared the policy signified Australia showing "the line has been drawn." He described it as a "globally pioneering initiative" that would "transform lives" for Australian children and provide families with "more peace of mind." "It is indeed a proud day to be Australian. For make no mistake – this reform will change lives," he said. "This is a profound measure which will continue to echo around the world." Online Safety Chief Makes Comparisons to Previous Public Health Campaigns The eSafety Commissioner, commenting on the prohibition's implementation, likened the online platform restrictions to historic Australian initiatives on societal issues. "The world will emulate our lead like countries once followed our example on standardised cigarette packaging, gun reform, water safety," the Commissioner stated. "How can you not emulate a country so visibly placing teen well-being ahead of technology profits?" Inman Grant voiced confidence that technology companies have the "technical ability" to comply with the new requirements. Mixed Compliance from Platforms As the ban came into effect, tests revealed mixed compliance from different social media platforms. Findings suggested that sites such as Twitch and the forum site were still allowing profiles to be registered with ages set for 14-year-olds. By contrast, several major apps including Instagram, TikTok, X, and a streaming rival prevented registrations for under-16s. Communications Minister, the Minister, noted the system was "evolving" and stressed that companies would be obligated to "regularly check" for underage accounts ongoing. Additional Domestic News The day of events also included several other significant stories across Australia: Opposition Immigration Policy: Opposition MPs were set to confer to debate immigration approaches, with reports suggesting a focus on accelerating the processing of protection applications and increasing removals. Indigenous Child Protection: A new report found "obscene" levels of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people continue to be removed from their homes, advocating a fundamental overhaul to the child protection system. Mining Magnate Landing Pad Blocked: The City of Perth rejected a bid by the mining billionaire's firm to install a private helicopter pad on its planned office, citing disruption issues and possible impacts on new apartment development. New South Wales Bushfire Electricity Cut: Homeowners impacted by a recent NSW bushfire criticised an power provider's choice to go ahead with a scheduled electricity cut during the fire event, which they claimed affected their ability to defend their homes. International Reaction and Looking Ahead The national ban has already drawn attention internationally. Ex- American official Rahm Emanuel, who worked as senior adviser to President Obama, shared a video calling for the U.S. to "pick up its game" and adopt a comparable ban. As the policy now in effect, its roll-out, enforcement, and broader societal effects will be carefully watched both domestically and around the world.