Melbourne/IBNS: In a landmark ruling, Australia banned those under 16 from using social media, making it one of the world's toughest crackdowns on popular sites like Facebook, Instagram and X, media reports said.

The bill has now passed both parliamentary chambers with bipartisan support.

The social media platforms will soon be expected to take "reasonable steps" to prevent young teens from opening or having accounts.

Failure to do so, a firm might face fines of up to Aus$50 million (US$32.5 million).

Social media platforms have described the laws as "vague", "problematic" and "rushed".

The legislation passed parliament's lower chamber on Wednesday and passed the Senate late on Thursday evening.

It is now on its course to become law.

Eyeing a comeback in the election early next year, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has championed the new rules and was backed by Aussie parents.