Government bans children under 14 from

accessing social media

October 2024 A recent survey commissioned by Westpac has found that 25 per cent of teenagers have fallen victim to scams on social media platforms, especially when buying or selling goods and services. The new research indicated that 97 per cent of teenagers use social media and spent close to three hours daily on various platforms. Carolyn McCann, Westpac’s Customer and Corporate Services executive, called on social media companies to enhance user safety measures to prevent scammers from targeting young users. McCann also emphasised the role of parents in educating their children about detecting and avoiding scams. The survey involved over one thousand parents, who had teenagers aged 13 to 17 years, and their children. The findings also revealed that, despite policies restricting users aged under 13, underage usage remains common. The research comes as state premiers advocate for tighter age restrictions, with South Australia and New South Wales planning a joint social media summit to address the issue. The Premier of South Australia Peter Malinauskas has released a report by the former Chief Justice of the High Court the Honourable Robert French AC outlining a legislative vehicle to ban children under the age of 14 from accessing social media. The report is the result of an Independent Legal Examination commissioned by the Premier in May, amid escalating concerns from experts, educators, and parents over the potential negative impacts of social media use on children’s mental health, wellbeing and development. The 276-page report includes a proposed bill which sets out the legislative framework to ban social media for children under 14 and require social media companies to establish parental consent before allowing children aged 14 and 15 to use their platforms. For serious breaches, the regulator would be able to seek significant penalties and orders through the Supreme Court. The families of children who suffer mental or physical harm as a result of access to social media would be able to sue for damages in circumstances where a provider breached their duty under the Act. At National Cabinet on Friday, Premier Peter Mali-nauskas discussed the proposed social media regulation with all Premiers, Chief Ministers and the Prime Minister, and made clear the South Australian Government’s preference to work in collaboration with other jurisdictions. Premier Malinauskas said, parents throughout the state are looking for governments to provide guidance, support and regulation to tackle this challenge. “When we see products doing children harm, whether it be drugs, cigarettes or alcohol, governments have a role to play. The addictive nature of social media is no different”.

Greek Tribune Adelaide, South Australia