Australia became the first country to ban social media access for children under 16, blocking platforms such as TikTok, YouTube, Instagram and Facebook. Under the new law, ten major platforms were instructed to restrict access or face penalties of up to A$49.5 million ($33 million).

The move has drawn criticism from major tech companies and free-speech groups, but has been welcomed by many parents and child-safety advocates.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese called it "a proud day" for families, framing the law as evidence that policymakers can finally curb online harms that have outpaced traditional safeguards. Albanese said at a Wednesday news conference that "This will make an enormous difference. It is one of the biggest social and cultural changes that our nation has faced," adding, "

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