29 October 2024 The Allan Labor Government’s public consultation regarding age limits for social media is to close soon with findings set to shape an education program to keep kids safe online.
Member for Narre Warren South Gary Maas MP, informed that Safe Socials is set to be delivered in schools as a resource for students, teachers, and families who are navigating social media.
It is clear parents are worried about their kids using social media, but they feel powerless to push back against the tech giants.
That’s why the Allan Labor Government is working with the Commonwealth to introduce age limits to protect kids from the harms of social media.
But age limits are only part of the equation. Social media is a reality of modern life, and young people need to be equipped with the tools to use it safely when they are ready.
Safe Socials builds on the success of other education programs pioneered by the State Government, such as Safe Schools and Respectful Relationships, and the state’s Australian-first ban on mobile phones in schools.
A $3.5 million investment will support the Department of Education to develop new digital literacy resources.
This consultation will also inform the Commonwealth’s laws for national age limits on social media. The survey at engage.vic.gov.au/safesocials will be open until Friday, 1 November 2024.
Quotes attributable to Member for Narre Warren South Gary Maas MP:
“Social media can be a great way to learn, play and connect. But our young people must be educated with the tools they need to stay safe and protected from the harms of social media through age limits.”
“I encourage parents, carers, teachers and students to participate in the survey so they can have their say on proposed social media age limits.”