Young Australians voice opinions on under-16s social media ban
The BBC spoke to young Australians in Sydney to gauge their reactions to the new social media restrictions for users under the age of 16. The ban, aimed at protecting minors from online harms, has sparked debate about digital rights, mental health, and the role of social media in young people’s lives.
Interviewees, aged between 18 and 20, shared a mix of opinions. Some praised the ban, saying it could help reduce exposure to cyberbullying, online predators, and excessive screen time. Others expressed concern that it limits freedom of expression and access to platforms that have become integral to social and educational life.
Experts note that while the law is intended to safeguard children, its enforcement and effectiveness remain uncertain. Young Australians highlighted that many under-16s already use social media through shared accounts or by circumventing age restrictions, raising questions about how practical the ban will be in reality.
The conversations also revealed broader generational perspectives on online engagement, with respondents emphasizing the importance of digital literacy, responsible usage, and parental guidance alongside government regulations. Many suggested that education on safe social media practices could be more effective than outright bans.
The public discussion illustrates the complex balance between protecting young users and preserving their online freedoms. Policymakers face the challenge of designing rules that genuinely safeguard minors without alienating them from the digital spaces where much of their social and creative interaction occurs.