Australia has implemented a world-first ban on social media for individuals under the age of 16, effective as of Wednesday. The move is part of a broader effort to protect children from the potential harms of social media, including bullying, exposure to violent or explicit content, and the impact on mental health. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated, “Enough is enough,” emphasizing the need for the country to “take back control” from tech giants.

The ban affects a range of popular platforms, including Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, and X, with fines of up to $33 million for non-compliance. These platforms are now required to purge their services of Australian users under the age of 16. Other countries are closely watching Australia’s approach, with some, such as New Zealand and Malaysia, considering similar restrictions.

The decision has been welcomed by parents and advocacy groups who have long expressed concerns about the impact of social media on children’s well-being. Mia Bannister, who lost her teenage son to suicide after he was bullied online, praised the move, criticizing social media companies for shirking their responsibility. Research suggests that excessive social media use can have negative effects on teenagers’ mental health, although drawing definitive conclusions is challenging due to the complexity of factors involved.

Tech companies have responded critically to the ban, with Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, arguing that it could drive children to less regulated platforms. Elon Musk’s X also commented, stating that the ban was not their choice but a requirement of Australian law. Despite these criticisms, the Australian government is resolute, emphasizing the need for caution when it comes to children’s access to potentially addictive and harmful online content.

The ban’s effectiveness will depend on how rigorously social media companies enforce age restrictions. Platforms may use AI tools to estimate users’ ages or require government-issued IDs for verification. The list of banned platforms is subject to review, with some apps like Roblox, Pinterest, and WhatsApp currently exempt.

This move by Australia marks a significant step in the global debate over how to regulate social media and protect young users. As the world watches, the outcomes of this policy will inform future decisions on balancing the benefits of social media with the need to safeguard children’s well-being.