On Thursday, November 7, the Australian Government announced a new “world-leading” plan to steer young Australians away from social media.
Endorsed by Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, the proposed legislation calls for a social media ban for all young people under the age of 16.
Mr Albanese said “social media is doing harm to our kids and I’m calling time on it. I want Australian parents and families to know that the government has your back.”
The proposed ban has already received support from Australia’s states and territories, but there has been a mixed response from parents and families.
‘Encourage children to speak up’:
Theodora Karagiannis is a mother of two from Melbourne, Victoria, who supports the proposed ban. She said social media has both its pros and cons, but thinks a ban for those under 16 could be beneficial.
“[Social media] can bring people together from all parts of the world, entertain and educate in all areas, but it can also create negative role models, influence in dangerous activities or cause mental issues via bullying, harassment and lack of guidance,” Theodora told The Greek Herald.
“I am for the ban as I believe children should learn to form friendships, self-respect and learn to entertain themselves through other means like sports, hobbies and socialising.”
Having both a 22-year-old daughter and a 14-year-old son, Theodora stressed the importance of monitoring children’s online activity.
“Banning social media from younger children will not improve anything unless parents educate and monitor,” she said.
“It should become a topic in schools and encourage children to speak up to an adult if exposed to anything concerning.”
‘I am on the fence about a ban’:
Anna Stergiou, a mother of five from Sydney, Australia revealed she is neither for or against the ban. Having children aged between 15 and 29 who are all on social media, Anna said she primarily monitors her youngest daughter online due to her concerns about predators and bullying.
“I’m on the fence but leaning towards supporting a ban,” Anna said.
“My youngest daughter, who is 15 and autistic, finds social media to be relaxing, which makes me hesitate [about the ban]. Without this, I would fully support it.”
Anna said she hopes the social media ban will improve the livelihoods of young people, as it will encourage parents to take a step back from technology and spend quality time with their children.
“I believe we need to take a stand on how we use technology with our kids,” she said.
“Let’s encourage them to play outside, communicate face-to-face, and value real heroes in our communities. I’d love to see kids enjoying simple, outdoor activities, like we did growing up.”
Although no dates have been set for the proposed legislation as of yet, the ban is expected to take at least 12 months before it is in full effect.
