Australia has implemented a landmark law requiring social media platforms to ban users under the age of 16 from their services.

The policy is considered the strictest in the world because, unlike similar efforts in the United States or the European Union, it does not allow for exemptions via parental approval, says the BBC.

In the first week of compliance, Meta blocked approximately 550,000 accounts in Australia. This included 330,639 accounts on Instagram, 173,497 on Facebook, and 39,916 on Threads.

While the government and campaigners justify the ban as necessary to protect children from harmful algorithms and content, tech companies like Meta argue for different approaches.

Meta has suggested that age verification should occur at the app store level to create a consistent industry-wide standard and prevent a “whack-a-mole” effect where teens simply migrate to newer, less regulated apps.

Some experts warn that children may easily circumvent technology checks or move to less safe corners of the internet. Furthermore, mental health advocates and youth have argued that the ban strips away vital connections for marginalized groups—such as LGBTQ+, neurodivergent, or rural communities—and may leave them less prepared for the realities of digital life.

The policy is being watched closely by world leaders; for instance, the UK’s Conservative Party has pledged to introduce similar measures if they return to power.

The implementation of the ban has been compared to building a high wall around a playground to keep children safe from outside traffic. While it effectively blocks the immediate danger, critics worry children will simply find a hole in the fence or wander off to play in even more dangerous, unmonitored areas.