Australian Mother Advocates for Social Media Age Restrictions

Mia Bannister, a mother from Australia, is transforming her grief into action by advocating for laws that aim to protect children from social media. Her son, Ollie, tragically took his own life after struggling with anorexia and online bullying. Beginning on December 10, 2023, children under 16 in Australia will be prohibited from accessing social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, Reddit, and TikTok. Companies that fail to comply with this new legislation could face penalties of up to $32 million.

Bannister believes that had these regulations been in place a year ago, Ollie might still be alive. “He was my best friend,” she reflected, her skin marked with a tribute to her son that features a mother holding a red cracked heart. The emotional weight of her loss is palpable as she recalls Ollie’s vibrant spirit, which dimmed as he battled his mental health issues exacerbated by online content.

The impact of social media on mental health is supported by a survey conducted by Mission Australia, which found that approximately 97 percent of teens use social media daily, with nearly half spending over three hours online. Those who limited their usage to less than three hours reported better well-being and social connections. The Australian government hopes to reshape children’s online habits through this legislation rather than completely eliminating their access to the internet.

Challenges of Implementation

Despite the well-intentioned goals of the law, significant questions remain regarding its enforcement, particularly how platforms will verify user ages. Some major social media platforms, such as Discord, Pinterest, Roblox, LEGO Play, and WhatsApp, will not be included in the ban, although the government reserves the right to enforce compliance across all platforms.

Critics, including Catherine Page Jeffery, a lecturer at the University of Sydney, argue that blanket bans may not effectively address online safety concerns. “I don’t think that this is the right approach to online safety,” she stated, suggesting that rather than excluding young people, there should be enhanced safety measures placed on platforms to protect children.

The potential exclusion of young users from beneficial experiences is another concern. For many, social media serves as a vital tool for identity formation and skill development. Ava Chanel Jones, a 12-year-old with over 11,400 followers on Instagram, uses the platform to showcase her talents in cheerleading, dancing, and modeling. Her mother, Zoe, actively monitors Ava’s interactions online, emphasizing the importance of parental guidance.

Balancing Safety and Opportunity

As the eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant asserts, age restrictions could be a significant step toward reducing online harm, though she acknowledges that there is no immediate solution to the complexities of digital safety. The challenge lies in balancing the need for protection with the opportunities that social media can provide.

Mia Bannister continues to channel her grief into advocacy through her charity, raising awareness about eating disorders in boys and the implications of social media legislation. “I do it for him, and I do it for all the other children out there,” she expressed, emphasizing her commitment to making a difference.

With the introduction of these new laws, the conversation about the impact of social media on mental health and the responsibility of tech companies will likely intensify. As Australia takes this significant step, the effectiveness of the legislation in safeguarding children remains to be seen, as do the broader implications for digital engagement among young people.