Premier says social media driving youth suicides as Qld backs ban
The Queensland government has backed an age ban on social media, accusing tech giants of making children “feel worthless” and driving suicide rates across the state.
Legislation due to come before federal parliament this month would prevent under-16s from using platforms including Facebook, Instagram, X, TikTok and YouTube.
New LNP Premier David Crisafulli confirmed his support for the proposal at a virtual national cabinet meeting with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Friday morning.
Premier David Crisafulli has backed the federal government’s proposed social media age ban. Credit: William Davis
“There are very few dissenting voices on this,” the premier told reporters afterwards.
“I want to ensure that legislation that is driven out of Canberra ensures that these big social media giants can be held accountable. There’s no point setting rules that aren’t enforced and aren’t having adequate penalties.
“It is essential that the message is sent that the onus must be put on those big companies that are profiting to be able to do the right thing, and to be able to reduce the trauma that families are experiencing because of an unregulated market.”
The premier believes the mental health of children across the state is compromised by social media.
“Everything from a generation of kids who feel worthless, kids who have taken their life or attempted to take their life, breakdowns of families,” Crisafulli said.
“It’s for all to see, and we support a national approach.”
Labor Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed the proposed bipartisan legislation this week.
“Social media is doing harm to our kids and I’m calling time on it,” he said from Parliament House on Thursday.
“I’ve spoken to thousands of parents, grandparents, aunties and uncles. They, like me, are worried sick about the safety of our kids online.”
The age limit will come into effect 12 months after the law is passed, giving platforms time to work out the most effective system for enforcement.