Is The Social Media Ban Already Failing?

Australia banned social media for under-16s. It hasn't stopped kids from using it.

New research shows most young people are still logging on, creating fake accounts and finding easy ways around age checks. Dr Justin Coulson explains why the law isn't delivering what parents hoped for and why families still have the biggest influence on their children's online lives.

Then the conversation turns to something far more hopeful.

Dutch children are the happiest in the world. It's not because Dutch parents have all the answers. Their families spend more time together. Their children have more independence. Their communities are built around connection. Justin and Kylie unpack what Australian parents can borrow, even if we can't recreate the Dutch system.

KEY POINTS

• What the first research on Australia's social media ban found.
• How children are getting around age verification.
• Why parents still need to lead screen time at home.
• The habits that help Dutch children report the highest levels of happiness.
• Why friendships, family time and independence matter more than expensive programs.
• Simple ways to create stronger community around your own family.

QUOTE OF THE EPISODE

"The legislation can't do the parenting for us. We still have to do the job."

RESOURCES MENTIONED

• Boys: Building Strong Young Men from the Inside Out by Dr Justin Coulson
• 10 Things Every Parent Needs to Know by Dr Justin Coulson
• Misconnection by Dr Justin Coulson
• Happy Families resources at happyfamilies.com.au
• Research: Early Effects of Australia's Social Media Minimum Age Act on Adolescents' Social Media Use

ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS

• Don't assume the social media ban is keeping your child off social media. Check in often.
• Talk about social media regularly instead of waiting until something goes wrong.
• Protect family time by working it into your weekly routine.
• Help your child build friendships through school, sport and local activities.
• Invite another family over, organise a neighbourhood catch-up or say yes to the next community event. Small connections build a stronger village.

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