Politics Now Social media ban looms. Are we ready?
Dec 3, 2025
Communications Minister Anika Wells outlines a potential social media ban for under-16s, stirring debate over enforcement and parental perspectives. While discussing this, the hosts highlight delays in necessary gambling ad reforms from years past. They also examine the political dynamics affecting decision-making within the Labor party, questioning whether pressure from party members might prompt action. The conversation touches on the economic landscape, hinting at trends that might influence future policy decisions.
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Social Media Age Limit As A Major Reform
- The social media age-limit is framed as a major, world-leading child-protection reform with broad political support.
- The government expects it to be gradual and will use monthly transparency reporting to claim progress.
Policy Sold As Political Win
- The prime minister is actively pushing ministers, especially Annika Wells, to 'sell' the policy because it's politically popular with parents.
- Political messaging anticipates initial implementation failures and plans to present partial removal figures as wins.
Emma Mason's UN Testimony
- Patricia Karvelas recalled Emma Mason, a grieving mother whose 15-year-old died after social media bullying.
- Mason gave a powerful speech at the UN and has been central to the government's narrative on harms to kids.
