Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has warned that the nation’s social media regulations will continue to evolve as the government works to protect children online.

Mr Albanese said Australia must keep updating its approach as technology changes, acknowledging that regulating powerful digital platforms is a complex and ongoing challenge.

The Labor government is preparing stronger measures to enforce restrictions on social media access for users under 16, including giving the eSafety Commissioner greater powers to investigate and demand information from technology companies.

The proposed changes could also increase penalties for platforms that fail to comply, with the government accusing major tech companies of not doing enough to prevent young users from accessing restricted services.

The Prime Minister said future governments would likely continue adjusting digital rules as new online challenges emerge and technology continues to develop.