Australia is to ban social media for children under 16, with the prime minister saying he is “putting an end” to the harm caused to young people.

Anthony Albanese announced on Thursday that the government had agreed on Monday to introduce a minimum age for access to social networks.

“Social media is hurting our children, and I’m putting a stop to it,” he said.

The prime minister said the proposal would be submitted to a virtual meeting of the country’s leaders on Friday.

“The onus will be on social media platforms to demonstrate that they are taking reasonable steps to prevent access,” he said.

“The responsibility will not fall on parents or young people. There will be no penalty for users.

He said the Electronic Security Commissioner would provide oversight and enforcement, with the legislation due to come into force 12 months after it was passed by Parliament.

Communications Minister Michelle Rowland described the proposed laws as world-leading.

“Coming to this age, the government has taken a pragmatic approach,” she said.

“Our approach helps achieve a balance between minimizing the harm caused by young people’s access to social media, whilst enabling connection and inclusion.”

The government will introduce privacy protection measures for information collected for age assurance purposes.