An update on the proposed social media ban in Australia

The conversation on a social media ban continued last week.

The Australian government has committed to a ban (or age limit for accessing platforms) with an added option of exemptions for platforms that demonstrate ‘low risk of harm to children’. 

Minister for Communications Michelle Rowlands said at the NSW and SA Social Media Summit that, “The aim of an exemption is to create positive incentives for digital platforms to develop age-appropriate versions of their apps, and embed safe and healthy experiences by design.”

What do we know about children and young people’s use of social media?

• eSafety Commissioner – 84% of Australian children between the ages of 8–12 have been using social media and messaging services since the beginning of the year. Data suggests approximately 1.3 million under-aged kids have used social media and messaging services since the start of this year.
• ReachOut Australia – 73% of young people use social media platforms for mental health purposes. 

Why is a nuanced approach important?

• Australian Child Rights Taskforce – Bans affect children and young people’s rights to access and participate online safely.
• Digital Child – Learning about social media before adulthood is an important step in helping children and young people be informed in their future use of platforms. 

More resources:

• Responses to discussion on children and a social media ban
• Articles for parents and carers

Young people want solutions that balance benefits and risks: Reflections from the Social Media Summit.

Read the article

Digital Child experts Professor Michael Dezuanni and Dr Amanda Levido provide input to the Joint Select Committee.

Added on 13 November 2024. Digital Child expert Professor Tama Leaver speaks to ABC about the proposed social media ban in Australia.