Australia Leads with Landmark Social Media Ban for Under-16s

Australia has become the first nation to ban social media access for individuals under 16, drawing support from parents and criticism from tech companies. The law, aimed at mitigating online harm, requires platforms to block access or face substantial fines. The global impact is anticipated as regulators watch closely.

Australia has taken a groundbreaking step by becoming the first country to prohibit social media use for children under 16, a move celebrated by many parents and child protection advocates but contested by major technology companies and defenders of free speech.

The law, which came into effect at midnight (1300 GMT Tuesday), mandates ten major platforms, including TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook, to restrict access to minors or incur fines up to A$49.5 million ($33 million). Prime Minister Anthony Albanese lauded the measure as a significant social and cultural reform.

Amid ongoing debates internationally, other countries like Denmark and New Zealand are considering following Australia's example. The law aims to tackle issues like misinformation, bullying, and adverse body image depictions, with a focus on improving young people's mental health.

(With inputs from agencies.)