In a recent move by the Australian government, they are considering a nationwide ban on social media for anyone under the age of 16. The law would make it illegal for kids younger than the age of 16 to access platforms like Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and Snapchat. If this is passed, this would be one of the strictest measures against social media use anywhere.
The Australian government says the decision is driven by growing concerns over the impact of social media on young people’s mental health, safety, and well-being. There has been increasing worry that social media can cause anxiety, depression, and even harm to children, especially as they are exposed to bullying, unrealistic beauty standards, and other harmful content.
“We have to protect our young people,” said Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. “Social media can be a dangerous place for kids, and we believe this law will help keep them safe.” Many parents and experts support the idea, saying it could be a good way to limit the negative effects of social media on kids. They argue that kids often spend too much time online and are not always equipped to deal with the pressures and risks that come with it.
Shrihan Mamidi, a junior at Green Level, claims that he obtained Instagram at the end of his 8th-grade year. “My first form of social media was Instagram, but my parents were unaware of me having the app, I didn’t even have a cell phone at the time,” Mamidi states that he hid his social media from his parents before they bought him a phone one year later, and then they allowed him to have social media.
Critics of the ban argue that it may be too harsh and that younger teenagers need to learn how to use social media responsibly instead of banning it as a whole. Some people also worry that the ban could provoke kids to just lie about their age, or use virtual private networks (VPN.)
“This is a step too far,” says Matt Fraser, the New York Chief Technology Officer of Technology and Innovation. “Instead of banning social media outright, the government should focus on educating kids about how to use it safely. Restricting access might push the problem underground.”
While the idea of a nationwide ban is still in its beginning stages, the debate will continue as the government works out the details. Many young Australians are watching closely to see if the law goes through, and wondering what the future of social media might look like without them.
