Rodney Stevens

In response to the increasing concerns about the harmful impacts of social media, the NSW Government wants to hear what the community thinks of this technology and how it effects our lives, and everyone is invited to have their say.

This investigation comes in response to increasing concerns about the harmful effects of social media on young people, including exposure to inappropriate and illegal content, cyberbullying, and negative impacts on their mental health and development.

As part of the exploration of the impacts of social media, the NSW and South Australian Governments are jointly hosting Social Media Summits during October in Sydney and Adelaide.

The Summits will bring together experts, policymakers, academics, young people, and the wider community to discuss the positive and negative impacts of social media in people’s lives and explore the path forward.

Before the Summits, the NSW Government wants to hear the community’s thoughts on social media, including how and why we and our families use it, plus concerns related to online safety, disinformation, misinformation, online hate, and extremism.

The information gathered from the survey will directly inform the discussions at the summit and help the government formulate practical solutions to address the issues posed by social media, with the goal of supporting everyone to have a safer and more positive online experience.

People are asked to complete an online survey at https://www.haveyoursay.nsw.gov.au/social-media-usage-and-impacts which asks questions including ‘On a typical day, how many hours would you spend using social media platforms, if at all?’; ‘Which of the following platforms do you consider to be social media?’; ‘Which of the following do you currently use?’; “What do you use social media platforms for?’; ‘Overall, what impact does social media have on your life?’; and ‘What, if anything, worries you about social media?’.

Do you think there should be an age limit for using social media platforms is a question sure to ignite debate.

The Summits will be held on October 10 in Sydney, and October 11 in Adelaide.

For more information visit https://www.haveyoursay.nsw.gov.au/social-media-usage-and-impacts

Anyone who experiences cyberbullying or harassment on social media is encouraged to call Lifeline on 13 11 44 or Beyondblue on 1300 22 46 36 for support.

People aged 12 to 25 can seek support from their local Headspace facility, while families are advised to contact 1800RESPECT.