Australian authorities are demanding major social media platforms report on account deactivations since a ban on users under 16 became law.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has welcomed a groundbreaking social media ban for children under 16 as families taking back power from tech giants.

Australia is set to enforce its age limit for social media accounts starting next week, and the platforms must provide monthly reports on how many children's accounts they have closed or face fines.

The Australian government says children under 16 will be banned from social media next month as scheduled despite a legal challenge.

The Australian government has begun a public education campaign with tips on how to wean children off social media ahead of a world-first national 16-year age limit taking effect.

Authorities say that social media platforms should not require age verification for all users when a ban on children under 16 having accounts goes into effect in December in Australia.

The Australian government has announced YouTube will be required to ensure account holders are at least 16 years old starting in December.

The Matildas have joined in the heavy criticism of a commercial radio host’s misogynistic and crass comments about Australia’s national women’s soccer team.