It has been a month since Australia banned children under 16 years of age from social media platforms, in a move to address the mental health issues that they face and to free them from the distraction.
As per officials, access to about 4.7 million accounts identified as belonging to children in Australia has been revoked since the ban.
What happens if the social media companies fail to comply?
Social media firms like Facebook, Instagram, Kick, Reddit, Snapchat, Threads, TikTok, X, YouTube and Twitch are liable to face fines of up to 49.5 million Australian dollars ($33.2 million) if they fail to take reasonable steps to remove the accounts of Australian children younger than 16.
"Today, we can announce that this is working. This is a source of Australian pride. This was world leading legislation, but it is now being followed up around the world," Prime Minister Anthony Albanese told a news conference.
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As per Reuters, France, Malaysia and Indonesia have all
said that they will introduce similar laws, while some European nations and U.S. states are also discussing following Australia with regards to the social media ban.
Media firms reported a mixed response to the social media ban, with some teens embracing new habits, while others trying to circumvent the law.
"While it's sad that I can't snap my friends, I can still text them on other platforms and I honestly feel kind of free knowing that I don't have to worry about doing my streaks anymore," said 14-year-old Amy to BBC.
Australian officials say the landmark ban is meant to protect children from addictive social media platforms that experts say can be disastrous for their mental health. The law received harsh criticism from major technology companies and free speech advocates, but was praised by parents and child advocates.
