Australia is set to significantly increase penalties for social media companies failing to adequately protect children and enforce age verification measures. The government in Canberra reports that tech platforms are continuing to allow underage users, specifically those under 16, to access social media despite existing regulations. These regulations were intended to restrict access for younger users and safeguard them from potential online harms. The planned doubling of fines reflects growing frustration with the current level of compliance from major technology firms. Officials state the current penalties are insufficient to deter platforms from allowing widespread circumvention of the age restrictions. The move aims to compel companies to invest in more robust age verification systems and prioritize child safety. Further details on the exact amount of the increased fines are expected to be announced shortly.