As Australia prepares to implement a world-first ban on social media for children under 16, the University of New England (UNE) is bringing together experts to help local parents navigate this significant change.
Children younger than 16 will be booted off Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, YouTube, Threads, Kick, Reddit, and Twitch when Australia’s world-leading ban kicks in on December 10. The onus is on social media companies, and not parents, to take “reasonable steps” to prevent teens having accounts.
The free community event, Navigating the New Normal: Social Media, Your Teen and the Law, will be held on Wednesday, November 26 at UNE Tamworth.
The talk will feature Dr Julia Day, a UNE Law Academic, and Dr Amanda Jefferys, Acting Director of the Clinical Psychology Program at UNE, who will provide both legal insights and practical strategies for families adjusting to the new legislation. Dr Day said the ban represents uncharted territory for Australian families.
“The social media ban for under 16s in Australia is a world first. It will be fascinating to see the impact it has on our kids and families! I am sure the world will be intrigued to see how we navigate this change,” Dr Day said.
“Social media has become central to many of our kids’ lives. Social media is a terrific device to build communities, but there are also dangers and risks involved with using social media which have been widely reported.”
Dr Day will explain the amendments to the Online Safety Act, including which platforms are affected and how the government plans to enforce and build upon the ban.
Dr Amanda Jefferys said parents’ concerns about their children’s online safety are well-founded and the event will provide practical tools to support families.
“Social media is always a hot topic of conversation in our modern world! From fake news, AI profiles, the dark web, is it any wonder parents are concerned,” Dr Jefferys said.
“Whilst social media can be useful. The world your child, teen, and young adult exists in really matters!
“Online bullying is rampant, scams on our young people causes so much distress, and our mental health has never before been as exposed. Let’s learn skills and strategies to lean into the change.
“Why are healthy friendships and relationships the core of our being? How do parents anchor their young persons to manage our modern world.”
The event is free and open to all parents, educators, and community members concerned about young people’s wellbeing in the digital age.
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