Australia has become the first country to prohibit children under 16 from using social media, ordering major platforms such as TikTok, YouTube, Instagram and Facebook to block access beginning at midnight Wednesday.

Ten large platforms were directed to enforce the age restriction or face penalties of up to A$49.5 million ($33 million). The new rules have drawn objections from several technology firms and free-speech advocates, but many parents and child-protection groups have welcomed the move.

The measure is attracting global attention as governments look for new ways to address mounting concerns over how social media affects young people’s mental health and safety. Some countries are reportedly considering laws of their own based on Australia’s approach.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, in a video message that Sky News Australia said will be shown in schools, urged children to use their upcoming holidays to step away from screens. “Rather than spending it scrolling on your phone, start a new sport, learn a new instrument, or read that book that has been sitting there for some time on your shelf,” he said. “And importantly, spend quality time with your friends and your family, face to face.”

The decision ends a year of debate over whether a government could effectively prevent minors from accessing platforms that many see as an integral part of modern life. It also launches a large-scale test case for lawmakers elsewhere who have sought stronger responses from the tech sector on child safety.

Australian Christian Lobby CEO Michelle Pearse welcomed the decision, calling it “a significant step forward in safeguarding children online.”

“This move addresses well-documented concerns about the vulnerability of children on these platforms, including exposure to predators, pornographic and other harmful content, and the heightened risk of mental health issues linked to social media use,” she said.

Of the platforms affected, all except Elon Musk’s X have said they plan to comply, relying on age-verification tools such as age-inference technology, user selfies, ID documents or bank-linked accounts. Musk has argued publicly that the effort “seems like a backdoor way to control access to the internet by all Australians.” A High Court challenge backed by a libertarian lawmaker is pending.

Technology companies say the rule will not significantly cut into advertising revenue — children under 16 account for only a small share — but warn that it disrupts the pipeline of future users. The government reported that 86% of Australians ages 8 to 15 were using social media shortly before the ban took effect.

The government said the list of restricted platforms will be updated as new services appear and usage patterns shift.