The Australian Senate has passed a social media ban for young children that will soon become a world-first law

Australian lawmakers today approved a landmark ban on social media for children under 16 in an attempt to address the negative impact of various apps on young people’s physical and mental health.

Australia will ban children under 16 from using social media, after its Senate approved the world's strictest laws. The ban - which will not take effect for at least 12 months - could see tech companies fined up to A$50m ($32.