Australia's social media ban unlikely to stop cyberbullying

Perth (Australia):The Australian Federal Government's Online Safety Amendment (Social Media Minimum Age) Act, commonly called the 'social media ban,' has now come into effect. While intended to protect under-16s online, experts warn the law will do little to stop cyberbullying, which remains primarily a social problem rather than a technical one.

The legislation requires social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, Threads, Kick, Reddit, Snapchat, TikTok, Twitch, X (formerly Twitter), and YouTube to prevent Australians under 16 from having accounts. Platforms like Discord, GitHub, Google Classroom, LEGO Play, Messenger, Pinterest, Roblox, Steam, Steam Chat, WhatsApp, and YouTube Kids are not affected. Under-16s may still view public content on some platforms, such as YouTube, though they cannot like, comment, or subscribe.

Cyberbullying affects a significant number of young Australians. A 2021 report found that over a third of young people had experienced online bullying within six months. Bereaved parents, whose children were cyberbullied, have been among the most vocal supporters of the ban. Yet experts caution that restricting access to Instagram and Snapchat will not eliminate bullying, as messaging apps such as WhatsApp, Messenger, and Discord remain accessible. In many cases, bullying may simply move to less visible spaces, making it harder to detect and address.

These issues are central to the new series Adolescence, directed by Stephen Graham. The show draws inspiration from social media–driven crime among teens, highlighting how online interactions can escalate into real -world consequences. Graham’s series illustrates that while social media can offer creative outlets and learning opportunities, it also exposes teens to peer pressure, bullying, and risky behaviour.

Ultimately, bullying is caused by people, not platforms. While cyberbullying extends abuse into online spaces, peers and classmates are usually responsible rather than strangers. Resources such as ReachOut, Headspace, and the Kids Helpline (1800 551 800) emphasise strategies like pausing before responding, keeping evidence, and seeking support from trusted adults. These human interventions are far more effective than legislative measures alone.

The social media ban may help spark conversations between young people and trusted adults, which is valuable in itself. But there is no quick fix. Series like Adolescence remind viewers that social media, while beneficial in some ways, carries inherent risks. Understanding those dynamics, maintaining open dialogue, and providing supportive guidance are crucial for reducing harm and building resilience among young Australians.