This is reported by Reuters.
Authorities are requiring platforms such as Instagram, X, Facebook, and TikTok to block access for users under the age of 16. If these social networks fail to comply with this rule, they could face a fine of $32 million.
Meanwhile, the YouTube platform will remain accessible, as it is often used for educational purposes.
This law has not yet come into effect: trials for compliance methods will begin in January 2025, and these rules will become mandatory a year later.
As reported by Reuters, certain child protection groups oppose this law. However, recent surveys indicate that 77% of Australians support the legislation banning social media access for teenagers under 16.
For instance, it has been claimed that this law would deprive members of the LGBTQ+ community and migrants of the support they find online.
Meta, the company that owns Facebook and Instagram, stated that they respect Australian legislation but are "concerned" about the process that "accelerated the law's adoption without considering the evidence of what the industry is already doing."
X's owner Elon Musk also criticized the law: "It seems like a hidden way to control internet access for all Australians."