"We're going to be watching really closely" – politicians around the world are taking inspiration from Australia's social media ban

A graphic displaying a mobile phone with popular social media apps, including Facebook and Instagram in the foreground. Behind the mobile phone, an Australian flag and a judge's gavel and block.

With Australia's landmark social media restrictions set to come into force in just two days, global policymakers are closely watching Australia.

Starting from December 10, the likes of Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, TikTok, YouTube, and others will be required to take "reasonable steps" to prevent under-16s from using their platforms. Fines for failing to do so can reach $49.5 million AUD (approximately $32 million USD).