Social media ban takes effect as NT vows to continue school phone ban

Parliament House will light up green and gold tonight as the social media ban for under 16 year olds begins.

With sweeping national social media reform taking effect today, Parliament House in Darwin will be adorned in green and gold lights from 7.30pm Wednesday, recognising the national commitment to safer online environments for children.

The Northern Territory Government has long supported the introduction of the reform, agreeing to the national approach which places higher safety requirements on platforms rather than parents and their children.

The Federal Government reforms were led through National Cabinet, with all State and Territory leaders agreeing to a national approach.

Reforms were implemented under the Online Safety Amendment (Social Media Minimum Age) Act 2024.

Likewise, the Territory’s existing Student Mobile Phones in Government Schools Policy will be continuing, with Minister for Education and Training, Jo Hersey ready to double down.

Minister Hersey said it would not affect how education was delivered in Territory schools.

“I will be making sure our no phones in school policy continues to apply in all NT Government schools,” she said.

The Government has also confirmed these new social media reforms will not affect the current delivery of education in NT Government schools.

“This change does not affect how education is delivered in our schools,” Minister Hersey said.

“Kids need to be kids again, hopefully the social media ban will get more young Territorians moving.

“Whether that be seeing their friends face-to-face at the shops, going fishing or swimming together, and in touch with their families,” she said.

Minister for Youth, Seniors and Equality, Jinson Charls said these laws helped to protect Territory kids while they grow, learn and enjoy being young.

“We know social media can be an important way to connect but it also carries risks if young people are exposed too early or without the right supports.”

More information about the social media age restrictions is available on the Federal Government’s esafety website.

Originally published as Social media ban takes effect as NT vows to continue school phone ban