May 12, 2024: Today I have announced that the Malinauskas Government is taking nation-leading action to protect our children from social media.
We’re examining banning children under the age of 14 from having social media accounts. South Australia would also require parental consent for children aged 14 to 15 to have a social media account.
We are seeing mounting evidence from experts of the adverse impact of social media on children, their mental health and development.
And like most parents, I am concerned about the impact social media is having on children in our community.
I am determined to ensure as a government we are doing everything we can to protect our children
Former Chief Justice of the High Court Robert French AC has been appointed to conduct a legal examination into banning children under the age of 14 from having social media accounts.
The changes would be the first of their type in Australia but would follow a growing number of global jurisdictions banning social media access for children.
This builds on our state’s leadership in reducing harm to our kids through putting in place a ban on mobile phones in public high schools from term 3 2023.
Most recent figures show an average 29 per cent decrease in violent incidents in Terms 3 and 4 of 2023, compared to a similar period in 2022.
Don’t forget to share the announcement with someone you know who might be interested about finding out more.
Peter Malinauskas
PREMIER
