Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has announced a definitive timeline for the national teen social media ban, setting Australia on course to become one of the first countries to impose sweeping age restrictions on digital platforms.

At a media briefing, Prime Minister Albanese confirmed that the proposed law would prohibit children under the age of sixteen from accessing social media platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat even with parental consent.

The government’s plan will hold technology companies accountable for enforcing the age restrictions, with strict verification measures expected to be included in the legislation.

“This is about protecting the mental health and wellbeing of our young people,” Albanese said. “We’ve seen the impact of social media on anxiety, bullying, and self esteem, and it’s time for stronger action.”

The draft legislation is expected to be introduced in Parliament before the end of the year, with the ban slated to take effect twelve months after the law is passed.

Tech industry groups and privacy advocates have called for detailed consultation to ensure the measures are effective without compromising user data security.

The move follows growing international debate about the effects of social media on youth, with other nations closely watching Australia’s legislative progress.