BBC | Australia's Communications Minister Anika Wells has told the BBC she is not intimidated by technology companies who disagree with the country's "world-leading" social media ban and is ready if Washington weighs in.
From December 10, ten social media firms including Snapchat, Meta, TikTok and YouTube will have to take what the government says are "reasonable steps" to stop children under 16 from having accounts on their platforms.
"We stand firm on the side of parents and not on the platforms," Wells said.
Companies including Meta have said they agree more is needed to keep young people safe online, but don't think a ban is the answer, with some experts raising similar concerns.
Speaking to the BBC in Brisbane, Wells said the tech companies have had plenty of time - 15 to 20 years - to improve their practices, in light of research indicating their platforms cause harm.
"I am not intimidated by big tech because I understand the moral imperative of what we're doing," she said, adding that speaking to parents whose children have suffered online kept her strong.
She said the policy is the envy of many countries around the world, rattling off a list of leaders she says have contacted her government for advice emulating it.
"We're pleased to be the first, we're proud to be the first, and we stand ready to help any other jurisdictions who seek to do these things."
However, US President Donald Trump has previously said he would stand up to any country that attacked US tech companies. Australia's e-Safety Commissioner - who has been charged with overseeing the social media ban - has also been called to testify in front of US Congress.
Wells said the White House and Congress have a right to weigh in, and to examine Australia's actions, but she and her officials won't be distracted.
"We are very much concerned with doing our duty to Australians and Australian taxpayers who pay us to look after good public policy."