Australia is banning teenagers like Maggie from social media

Two years ago, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese labelled 6 News, a streaming news channel founded by then 14-year-old Leonardo Puglisi, a “fantastic initiative”.

Now, under Labor’s very own legislation, currently working its way through parliament, every child under 16 – like Leo was then – will be banned from using almost every social media platform.

The government is defending the proposed ban, arguing it will protect vulnerable children from social media giants that utilise “psychological manipulation” to expose them to dangerous content. 

But critics say the ban will be inconsistent and ineffective, pointing out it doesn’t specify which platforms will be restricted or explain how tech companies will enforce the ban.

Today, election reporter for 6 News Maggie Perry on how the social media ban will work, and the harm it could have on young people like herself.

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Guest: Election reporter for 6 News, Maggie Perry.

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