The state government is launching public consultation on age limits for social media, with the findings set to shape a new social media education program to keep kids safe online.
The online survey gives parents, teachers and young people the opportunity to share their experiences and concerns about social media use.
Findings from this consultation process will then shape a new social media safety program – Safe Socials.
The program will be delivered in schools as a resource for students, teachers and families about how to navigate and live with social media.
A $3.5 million investment will support the Department of Education to develop the new digital literacy resources.
The program will also include a dedicated website and fact sheets to help parents and carers understand social media safety.
Premier Jacinta Allan said parents are worried about their kids using social media, but they feel powerless to push back against the tech giants.
“Parents – and young people – always tell me they’re worried about social media, but they feel powerless against the social media tsunami,” she said.
“That’s why we’re keeping kids off social media before they’re ready, and giving them the tools to stay safe online once they’re older.”
The survey at engage.vic.gov.au/safesocials will be open until November 1, with groups able to participate.
The consultation process will also include a series of roundtable discussions, led by the Parliamentary Secretary for Children, Nathan Lambert, and the Parliamentary Secretary for Education, Nina Taylor – bringing together key stakeholders to capture the diverse needs of the Victorian community.
The process will also inform the Commonwealth’s laws for national age limits on social media.
