Woman's Hour

Kids social media ban in Australia, Tracey Emin on Bridget Riley, What your bum says about your health

13 snips
Nov 26, 2025
Katie Watson, the BBC Sydney correspondent, discusses Australia's bold move to restrict social media access for under-16s, citing mental health concerns and the complexities of enforcement. She shares insights from Australian teens about their mixed feelings on these new laws. Joining her is Susanna Hancock, who sheds light on the youth justice system's treatment of girls, emphasizing the need for trauma-informed approaches and alternative care solutions. Together, they highlight the pressing need for reforms to better support vulnerable youth.
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INSIGHT

Australia's Social Media Delay Is Platform-Focused

  • Australia plans a near-total delay of social media access for under-16s framed as protecting mental health and development.
  • The law targets specific platforms and forces companies to implement age-assurance under heavy fines, creating enforcement gaps.
INSIGHT

Selective Scope Creates Loopholes

  • The legislation excludes messaging and gaming platforms, producing obvious loopholes and driving kids to alternative services.
  • Experts warn this selective scope risks a whack-a-mole effect as youth migrate to unregulated platforms.
ANECDOTE

Teen Voices: Mixed Views On A Ban

  • Teenagers at an Australian school said some welcomed restrictions while others valued social media for connection and news.
  • Students argued older politicians misunderstand digital life and policymaking risks harming rural or neurodiverse youths.
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