Experts say social media ban a ‘blunt instrument’

A social media ban for children under the age of 16 is too blunt an instrument to effectively address all of the issues relating to online harm, according to an expert from The Australian National University (ANU).

The Federal Government announced plans to introduce a minimum age for access to social media and other digital platforms in September.

State and Territory Governments have since been asked to share their views.

Associate Professor Faith Gordon from ANU, along with Rhys Farthing from Reset Tech and James McDougall from the Australian Child Rights Taskforce, have written an open letter signed by more than 150 academics and organisations, outlining their concerns about the proposal.

“The risks that social media can pose for children and young people are well documented,” Associate Professor Gordon said.

“But the online world is also a place where children and young people access information, connect with family and friends and learn about the world around them.

“These opportunities are important to children. Any restrictions must therefore be designed with care. We’re concerned a ban is too blunt an instrument to address the risks effectively.”

The experts argue that a total ban could impinge upon the rights of children to access and participate in the digital world.

They also believe a blanket ban could disincentivise social media platforms from implementing child safety features for younger users.

“A ban could place a lot of responsibility on parents to provide consent. Asking them to do this without adequate guidance and support is unfair, when they may not be experts in the digital space,” Associate Professor Gordon said.

“Implementing such a ban effectively also remains a challenge. We don’t have the right techniques in place for age assurance, for example.

“There needs to be a focus on supporting and empowering children, families and carers.”

The full letter is publicly available online.

It has been sent to the Prime Minister, as well as the Premiers of New South Wales and South Australia.

The two states are holding a joint two-day summit to explore and address the impacts of social media this week.