Australia’s top officials for children and young people hold concerns about the rushed process and lack of clarity surrounding the federal government’s social media legislation, which will place significant restrictions on social media use for under 16s.
Meeting late last week, Australian and New Zealand Children’s Commissioners, Guardians and Advocates (ANZCCGA) raised concerns about the announcement having left insufficient time for thorough consideration and consultation, and the potential unintended consequences for the rights, safety, and wellbeing of children and young people.
Promoting the importance of respecting and protecting children’s rights, safety, and well-being in the digital environment is crucial to empowering our future generations.
Speaking on behalf of ANZCCGA members, Jodie Griffiths-Cook, ACT Public Advocate and Children and Young People Commissioner, said, “Despite the extensive media coverage and public debate surrounding the social media ban for children under 16 years, a significant oversight prevails: the rights and views of children and young people have often been marginalised in this discussion.”
“While we commend efforts that seek to protect the rights of Australian children and young people, there has not been enough consideration for the adverse impacts this decision could have on already marginalised groups such as LGBTQIA+ children and young people and those living in regional and remote areas, many of whom rely on social media for support, social connection, and learning,” she said.
“Children and young people have expressed their concerns to us about how these restrictions will affect them and have also offered their thoughts about how to keep them safe online,” said NSW Advocate for Children and Young People Zoë Robinson. “We need to acknowledge their solutions and ideas and then respond accordingly. By working together, we can help our children stay safe in the digital world and ensure it is an inclusive space that empowers them and supports their development.”
