The Australian internet regulator has flagged significant compliance issues among the world's biggest social media platforms regarding their ban on under-16 users. While tech giants like Facebook and Snapchat claim they are doing their best, eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant is not convinced.

Issues identified include allowing young users to repeatedly attempt age assurance methods and insufficient measures to prevent new under-16s from creating accounts. The regulator plans to enforce the restrictions more rigorously, with evidence needed to show platforms have implemented appropriate systems.

The ban has been closely watched by other countries, including the UK. However, despite efforts, many under-16s continue to access these platforms, raising questions about their effectiveness and potential harms.

While parents support the policy, critics argue that banning children from social media is not the solution. Instead, they advocate for education on potential risks, suggesting this approach could be more effective and inclusive of all groups.

The eSafety commissioner believes durable change takes time but emphasizes the role of parents in this cultural reset, highlighting how the ban empowers them to say no to their children's requests for social media accounts.