In a groundbreaking move, Australia is poised to introduce one of the world’s strictest social media regulations by banning users under 16 from major platforms. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced the policy on Thursday, describing it as a crucial step to safeguard young people from the mental health risks associated with social media.

The legislation, expected to take effect by late next year, aims to counter issues such as body image pressures on girls and exposure to harmful content targeting boys.

“No more harm to our kids from social media,” Albanese declared, underscoring the impact of digital platforms on teenagers. The law will require major platforms, including Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, X (formerly Twitter), and YouTube, to verify users’ ages with measures such as biometrics or government IDs. Unlike similar laws elsewhere, parental consent will not be an option for underage users, making Australia’s approach uniquely stringent.

The proposed legislation has received widespread approval, with support from leaders across industries, including Paytm founder Vijay Shekhar Sharma, who praised it on X as a “great move.” The bill, set for parliamentary review later this year, has bipartisan backing from the opposition Liberal Party, making its passage likely.

Communications Minister Michelle Rowland called the initiative “world-leading,” explaining that it would enforce Australia’s standards across the largest platforms. This step aligns with other international regulations, such as France’s age limit of 15 with parental consent and U.S. requirements for parental permission for users under 13.