From the Principal

It can be so much harder to take something away from children than to prevent them from having it in the first place, and the enactment of the upcoming Federal government’s Online Safety Amendment (Social Media Minimum Age) Act from 10 December will be just that experience for many. The setting of a minimum age of 16 for users of major social media platforms is intended, of course, to protect young Australians during these critical stages of development, reflecting growing concerns about the ethical use of technology and its impact on society, but, as the saying goes, ‘forewarned is forearmed’.

As you know, I have written recently about the modern digital landscape’s curated content based on engagement metrics. Be they social media feeds or news recommendations, existing beliefs and narrow exposure to diverse perspectives are often reinforced. For developing minds in need of cultivating their own empathy, emotional intelligence and the deepening of their understanding of human emotion, and social complexity, such narrow exposure can be stunting.

If we return to the original premise that advanced warning of a significant change like this should provide an advantage, a significant challenge for parents has been gaining the necessary clarity about the way the change will be implemented. Which platforms are included under the new Act? How will under-16s be stopped from finding a way around the new restrictions? Will there be penalties if they do? And the big one, what can I do to help my family prepare?

To support families in answering these questions, please find the link to the eSafety Commissioner’s website Social media 'ban' or delay FAQ | eSafety Commissioner

Particularly useful is that the site is updated regularly with the latest information available, and I would anticipate that there will be many additions to the site in the lead-up to 10 December. Forewarned is forearmed indeed.

Daniel Mahon

Principal