Tech companies will have a one-year grace period to comply with the new regulations, after which they could face fines of up to €31 million for non-compliance.

Opponents of the ban have mobilized significant public interest, sending thousands of emails to politicians over the weekend to express their concerns regarding the legislation.

Experts, including Christopher Stone, have highlighted the potential negative impact on children's mental health, advocating for evidence-based policies rather than hasty decisions.

The Australian federal parliament is poised to pass legislation that will prohibit children under 16 from accessing social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

While the intention behind the law is to protect children, experts have raised concerns about its vague implementation details and questioned its technical feasibility.

Criticism has emerged from independents and smaller parties, with Greens Senator Sarah Hanson-Young accusing major parties of misleading parents and potentially increasing youth isolation.

Senator Canavan voiced concerns about the complexity of regulating evolving technologies and emphasized the importance of public trust in the political process.

A recent study involving over 2 million participants found no conclusive evidence linking technology use to negative mental health outcomes, challenging existing assumptions.

Coalition senators voted against the bill, which received mixed reviews from mental health experts during a brief Senate inquiry.

The proposal has ignited intense debate, with youth advocates arguing it restricts children's voices, while some parents believe it is a necessary safety measure.

As the legislation moves forward, the government must navigate the complexities of public opinion and expert advice to ensure the best outcomes for children.