On Friday, Australians expressed a mix of anger and relief in response to the government’s new social media ban, which prohibits children under 16 from using platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook. The Australian government has hailed the ban as a world-first initiative, setting a global standard for regulating Big Tech. Under this law, social media giants must prevent minors from accessing their platforms or face hefty fines of up to A$49.5 million (US$32 million). The enforcement trial will begin in January, with full implementation expected within a year.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese emphasized the importance of protecting children from the dangers of excessive social media use, citing concerns over the physical and mental health risks for young people. He pointed to issues like harmful body image portrayals, particularly for girls, and misogynistic content directed at boys. “Platforms now have a social responsibility to ensure the safety of our kids is a priority for them,” Albanese stated, adding that the new law would help parents have more meaningful conversations with their children about online safety.

The announcement sparked mixed reactions in Sydney on Friday, with some supporting the measure, while others, including tech companies like TikTok, argue that the ban could push young people to “darker corners of the internet.”