The social media ban isn’t working. Now what?
Apr 7, 2026 •
The first official report from eSafety on how the government’s under-16 social media ban is going has been released. And the early picture is grim.
Kids are getting around the ban, and eSafety says it has seen no drop in cyberbullying or abuse reports involving children on those platforms.
So is this just a messy start, with the government right to ask for more patience? Or is it proving that you can’t fix platforms built to hook young people simply by trying to lock them out?
Today, associate editor for Crikey, Cam Wilson, on why the ban isn’t working – and whether Australia is focusing on the wrong solutions.
If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support.
The social media ban isn’t working. Now what?
1872 • Apr 7, 2026
The social media ban isn’t working. Now what?
The first official report from eSafety on how the government’s under-16 social media ban is going has been released. And the early picture is grim.
Kids are getting around the ban, and eSafety says it has seen no drop in cyberbullying or abuse reports involving children on those platforms.
So is this just a messy start, with the government right to ask for more patience? Or is it proving that you can’t fix platforms built to hook young people simply by trying to lock them out?
Today, associate editor for Crikey, Cam Wilson, on why the ban isn’t working – and whether Australia is focusing on the wrong solutions.
If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support.
Guest: Associate editor of Crikey, Cam Wilson
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7am is a daily show from Solstice Media.
It’s made by Arielle Richards, Atticus Bastow, Chris Dengate, Daniel James, Krystal Keller, Nicole Johnston, Travis Evans and Zoltan Fecso.
Our theme music is by Ned Beckley and Josh Hogan of Envelope Audio.