SYDNEY (Reuters) - Australia Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said on Sunday that criticism by Elon Musk of Australia's social media ban on children under 16 was the X owner pushing an agenda for the social platform, while indicating he was open to talk to the billionaire about the ban, legislated this week.

Australia Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said on Monday social media firms would be required to destroy personal data used to verify ages of users, as part of what the government says is a world-leading ban on under-16s using the services.

Australia Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said on Sunday that criticism by Elon Musk of Australia’s social media ban on children under 16 was the X owner pushing an agenda

Australia’s new law banning social media access for those under 16 has ignited a fierce debate with Elon Musk, who claims it undermines internet freedom. As govt seeks to protect children, concerns about implementation and Big Tech's accountability come to the forefront.