Like all Australians, I’m tired of reading the latest news informing us that yet another family has been devastated with their teenage son or daughter taking their own life due to being bullied or embarrassed on social media. Typically, these young Australians with their future in front of them, are in their early teens, that awkward age where studies (and simple observations by parents and grandparents) tell us that our youth are most vulnerable. For those of us who can remember back that far or have had children who have been through that stage, we experienced and observed the journey of finding where and how you fit into society and your place in the world. For some, the journey is simple. But for others, it is the most difficult time of their life comparing themselves with peers and celebrities, not only in their local circle but with the advent of the internet and social media, the rest of the world, which has only exacerbated the problem. This is why I was so pleased to see Peter Dutton take a stand and commit to the promise that if the coalition are elected at the next federal election, we will ban social media for those under 16, within the first 100 days of government. There will of course be pushback on this policy, but strong leadership and strong leaders make tough decisions because they are the right thing to do for our country and our kids deserve the best care. The other benefit is that those interpersonal communication skills like making eye contact, holding a conversation and reading body language which are diminishing, will hopefully make a comeback. Not a bad thing I say. Please give me your thoughts and views on this policy by sending me an email to Terry.Young.mp@aph.gov.au For crisis support or suicide intervention services phone 13 11 14.
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