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In a major development for digital regulation, Australia has implemented a landmark prohibition on social media access for users below the age of sixteen. This move has been championed by the nation's leader as a "proud day" and predicted by the eSafety chief as a reform the "world will follow."

A Historic Reform Comes Into Force

Speaking at Kirribilli House, Prime Minister the PM stated the policy represented Australia showing "enough is enough." He characterised it as a "globally pioneering reform" that would "change lives" for Australian children and provide families with "greater peace of mind."

"It is indeed a proud day to be Australian. Because make no mistake – this reform will alter lives," he remarked. "It's a significant reform which will continue to echo around the globe."

eSafety Commissioner Draws Parallels to Previous Societal Reforms

The eSafety Commissioner, commenting on the prohibition's start, compared the social media measures to past Australian initiatives on public health issues.

"Nations globally will emulate our lead like nations once followed our example on standardised tobacco labels, firearms reform, sun safety," she stated. "How can you not emulate a nation so visibly placing youth safety ahead of technology profits?"

She expressed certainty that technology companies possess the "technological ability" to adhere with the new requirements.

Mixed Adherence from Platforms

While the prohibition began, tests showed inconsistent adherence from different online services. Reports indicated that platforms such as the streaming service and the forum site were still allowing profiles to be created with ages set for 14-year-olds.

By contrast, several prominent platforms including TikTok, TikTok, X, and Kick blocked registrations for minors. Communications Minister responsible, Anika Wells, acknowledged the system was "developing" and stressed that companies would be obligated to "regularly check" for minor users continuously.

Additional National News

The day of news also featured several other notable developments across Australia:

• Coalition Migration Policy: Opposition MPs were scheduled to confer to debate immigration approaches, with reports pointing to a emphasis on speeding up the handling of asylum seeker applications and expanding deportations.
• Indigenous Children Protection: A new report found "obscene" levels of Indigenous young people continue to be taken from their homes, advocating a fundamental overhaul to the family services system.
• Mining Magnate Helipad Rejected: The City of Perth rejected a bid by Gina Rinehart's firm to build a private helicopter pad on its new office, citing noise concerns and possible impacts on new housing construction.
• NSW Fire Power Outage: Residents impacted by a last week's NSW bushfire questioned an energy provider's decision to go ahead with a planned electricity outage during the fire event, which they said affected their ability to protect their properties.

Global Reaction and Looking Ahead

This Australian measure has also drawn notice internationally. Ex- U.S. official the former Chicago mayor, who worked as senior adviser to former President Barack Obama, shared a video urging the United States to "pick up its game" and implement a similar ban.

With the new rule currently in effect, its implementation, compliance, and wider social effects will be closely watched both domestically and around the world.