SYDNEY, Dec 10: Australia on Wednesday became the world’s first country to enforce a nationwide ban on social media use for children under 16, blocking access to major platforms including TikTok, YouTube, Instagram and Facebook.

Ten major platforms were ordered to restrict underage access from midnight (1300 GMT Tuesday) or face penalties of up to A$49.5 million ($33 million). The law, welcomed by parents and child-safety advocates, faced criticism from tech companies and free speech groups.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese called it “a proud day” for families, saying the law signals that policymakers can restrain online harms that have outpaced traditional regulation. “This is the day when Australian families are taking back power from these big tech companies,” he told ABC News.

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