PARENTS CAN’T FIGHT BIG TECH ALONE
The message is clear as the Government moves to introduce a minimum age for social media.
For years, parents have been told to simply ‘manage’ their children’s social media use. Set boundaries. Check the settings. Put the phone away at bedtime.
But how are parents supposed to compete with some of the most powerful technology companies in the world, whose platforms are deliberately designed to keep children scrolling, with algorithms engineered to capture their attention and keep them coming back?
That is why the Government’s announcement of legislation to introduce a minimum age of 16 for high-risk social media platforms is such an important moment for New Zealand.
The proposed Online Safety Bill would put responsibility where it belongs: on the technology companies. It would require platforms to assess and reduce the risks they create for children, establish a dedicated online safety regulator in New Zealand, and introduce penalties for companies that fail to meet their obligations.
Will it be perfect? No. No law is. But that cannot be a reason not to act.
Think about tobacco. Society didn’t wake up one morning and eliminate smoking. Change happened gradually, through regulation, education, age restrictions, advertising bans and changing social expectations. What once seemed normal became unacceptable. The same kind of societal shift is needed when it comes to children and social media.
Big Tech has had years to change its ways, but it simply hasn’t. There have been too many examples of platforms failing to adequately protect children. Parents cannot be asked to fight a battle against algorithms designed by billion-dollar companies.
This legislation is a starting point. It signals that children’s wellbeing matters more than technology companies’ profits. And it is long overdue.
A Stuff reader poll of more than 32,000 people found that 82% supported the legislation. That is a powerful signal that New Zealanders are ready for change and want action to protect children online.
Now it’s time to ensure the momentum continues.