Viewpoints Radio
Published: January 18, 2026 by VPR Producer
Australia has become the first country to ban children under sixteen from social media, forcing platforms to block millions of young users overnight. Supporters say the move draws a long-overdue line around online harm while critics feel that it could push teens into riskier digital spaces with less oversight. As legal challenges mount and other countries watch closely, we cover what drove the country to implement this hardline policy on social media.
Guests:
Terry Flew, professor, digital communication and culture, University of Sydney
Susan Grantham, researcher, lecturer, communication, Griffith University
