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General News
13 September, 2024
Age limit for social media platforms
Kids aged 16 and under could soon be barred from using social media if a legislation to enforce a minimum age to access platforms like Facebook and Instagram is imposed.
The Federal Government announced a plan on Tuesday to deliver the relevant age limits through national legislation — “with further detail on age limits and definitions to be determined through national-level consultation”.
“We know social media is causing social harm, and it is taking kids away from real friends and real experiences,” Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said.
“We’re supporting parents and keeping kids safe by taking this action, because enough is enough.
The Advertiser asked locals — adults and kids — in Maryborough about their thoughts on the proposed legislation.
While most agree age limits should apply, there are concerns around how such a law would be enforced.
“Yes, it’s destroying young minds and is playing a heavy role in their mental health. I don’t know how you could enforce it, if a 15-year-old wants it, they will find a way to get it.”
— Sandra Gibson
“Yes, they are addictive and kids at school are on their phones all the time and taking photos of random people and posting it without their consent. I think 16 is the right age.”
— Kenzlee (aged 12)
“I do and the age should be 16, they will be a little bit more mature to handle the bad situations that social media can bring but no one is safe.”
— Christine Hooper
“We think it’s a good idea, social media can be quite toxic for young people if they are exposed to it pretty early and can change their brain. We think 14 is a safe age to start.”
— Joel and Whitney Wright
“I don’t think so, it’s like the old adage if you try to stop a kid from getting a lolly then they want a lolly more. If it was going to happen, it should have been put in at the beginning to set some standards.”
— Mary McManus
“No, it should be up to the parents and not the government to decide.”
— Lincoln (aged 14)
“I think there should be an age limit. That said I think some of it comes back to parenting, explain to kids what social media is and what you see isn’t always how things are.”
— Daniel Jennings
“Yes, kids are starting to become too involved with social media and I think 16 is a more appropriate age for them to use it.”
— Deanne Wright
“No, I’m not sure what age it would be, maybe at least 12 or 13, that’s when most people get their phones.”
— Parker (aged 9)
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