Australia has begun enforcing the world’s first social media ban for children under 16. Platforms like Meta, TikTok, and YouTube must take "reasonable steps" to stop underage users or face fines up to A$49.5 million ($33 million). Many teens woke up to find their accounts locked, while some say they've already bypassed age checks to keep posting. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese called the move historic, saying, "This is Australia showing enough is enough." He added, "I think it will go [down] with the other great reforms that Australia has led the world on." Unlike other countries, Australia’s law does not allow parental approval as an exception, making it the world’s strictest ban. Ten major social media sites are targeted first, with more to follow. Online safety regulator Julie Inman Grant said her agency will begin checking the platforms from Thursday. The ban aims to shield children from harmful content and the powerful algorithms social media uses. Twelve-year-old student Florence Brodribb said, "Social media is designed to take advantage of that. Young people deserve better than that." The ban is popular among parents, who hope it will reduce cyberbullying and child exploitation. But many young people, including 15-year-old Breanna, say it cuts off their key communication channels, especially in rural areas. Experts warn kids may still cheat the system or move to less safe online spaces. Some call for better education and moderation instead. Tech companies argue the government is overreaching and highlight improved parental controls already in place. Albanese acknowledged the law won’t be perfect but insisted, "Success is the fact that it’s happening. Success is the fact that we’re having this discussion." Regulator Inman Grant said Australia is setting a global example, comparing the ban to past leadership on plane tobacco packaging and gun reform. The government promises continued monitoring and updates on results before Christmas, signaling a long-term plan to protect children online.