Australia is tightening enforcement of its under-16 social media ban by increasing penalties for platforms that do not prevent children from obtaining accounts. Multiple outlets report that the government will raise the maximum fine for “systematic failures” to comply with the ban, doubling it to A$99 million (about $68 million) from A$49.5 million. The change is aimed at platforms including major social media services such as Facebook and Instagram, which could face higher financial exposure if regulators determine they are not taking sufficient steps to stop under-16s from creating or using accounts.

The updates also strengthen the powers of Australia’s internet regulator, the eSafety Commissioner. Sources say the regulator will be able to compel social media companies to provide evidence of the measures they have taken to stop children under 16 from getting accounts. Reporting highlights that critics argue the current approach is not fully effective, pointing to children bypassing the restrictions, which the government says requires more robust oversight and enforcement.