THE ban on social media for people aged under 16 is a “quick fix”, according to Independent candidate for Farrer Michelle Milthorpe.
The educator said the Federal Government’s proposal failed to address the root causes of social media misuse among young people.
Ms Milthorpe, who said she was familiar with the negative impacts of social media, believed the policy was more about “public appeasement” than real protection.
It was “ignoring the fundamental role that cyber literacy and responsible digital engagement must play” in helping young Australians navigate online spaces safely, she said.
“I’m all too aware of the negative impact social media misuse can have on the lives of young people,” Ms Milthorpe said.
“A ban alone will not solve this problem. Instead, we need to ensure that cyber literacy is a fundamental part of the national curriculum across all age groups, equipping young Australians to navigate these platforms safely and responsibly.”
Ms Milthorpe’s criticism reflected widespread concerns among experts.
Government-funded research from the eSafety Commissioner showed the vast majority of teenagers, aged 12 to 17, could easily bypass such restrictions.
With young people increasingly savvy in digital spaces, Ms Milthorpe argued that attempting to simply block access “missed the mark”.
“A reactive policy like this one does little to address the real issues,” Ms Milthorpe said.
“This ban can only work if it is coupled with a robust curriculum that focuses on educating our youth on safe, informed online practices.
“Cyber literacy needs to be taught as part of a lifelong skill set, starting in primary school and continuing through to young adulthood.”
Ms Milthorpe also emphasised the role of parents in fostering cyber safety and resilience at home and called on the government to provide families with accessible resources for guidance.
“Parents need accessible, regular opportunities to be upskilled in understanding how to manage their children’s cyber safety and literacy,” she said.
“We should be supporting them as the first educators in responsible social media use, including providing resources to help delay the introduction of smartphones and tech to young children.”
Ms Milthorpe called on the government to take “real action” by funding ongoing cyber literacy education and offer families the resources needed to support their children’s online lives.
“Protecting our children requires more than a ban,” she said.
“It requires a commitment to preparing them for the realities of a connected world.
“This is where the real investment is needed.”
