In the wake of Australia’s controversial decision to implement a social media ban for users under 16, the BBC conducted street interviews in Sydney to gauge reactions from young adults who belong to the first generation raised with ubiquitous social media access. The comprehensive survey targeted Australians aged 18-20, whose formative years coincided with the exponential growth of digital platforms.
These digital natives expressed complex, multifaceted perspectives on the regulatory measure. Many acknowledged legitimate concerns about cyberbullying, mental health impacts, and inappropriate content that prompted the government’s decision. However, significant reservations emerged regarding the effectiveness of age-based restrictions in addressing these complex issues.
Several interviewees highlighted the educational and social benefits they gained from early, supervised social media use, suggesting that blanket bans might deprive younger generations of valuable digital literacy development. Others pointed to practical implementation challenges, noting that determined teenagers often find ways to circumvent such restrictions.
The young adults emphasized the importance of comprehensive digital education and parental guidance rather than outright prohibition. Many advocated for balanced approaches that protect vulnerable users while still allowing access to positive aspects of social connectivity, information sharing, and community building that defined their own adolescent experiences.