Australia Sets New Standard with Under-16 Social Media Ban; World Watches

• Australia began enforcing a world-first law on Dec 10, 2025, banning children under 16 from platforms like TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook.
• The Online Safety Amendment Bill 2024 requires major platforms to block minors or face fines up to A$49.5 million.
• Prime Minister Anthony Albanese hailed the move as protecting children and restoring parental control, while critics warn of free speech concerns.
• The Australian ban is being closely watched globally, with countries like Malaysia, Denmark, and New Zealand expressing interest in its model.
• Other nations have various social media restrictions, including China's daily limits for minors, Iran's nationwide bans, and North Korea's total ban.

Why It Matters: Australia's social media ban for minors sets a global precedent for online safety.