From December 10 Australia will outlaw social media use for children 16 years of age or younger. While the event has been heavily debated in the media and in public, I believe that a different demographic is far more susceptible to online harm -  Australians over the age of 60.

Older adults, just like children, can be susceptible to misinformation on the internet. A study published in PNAS (Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences) revealed that users over 65 years are seven times more likely than younger users to share articles from fake news domains.

There also appears to be no understanding of what or what is not Ai and they videocall everyone in group chats. They were against the internet before reels ended up on Facebook and now we can't get them off it.

It's not just the damage they do spreading misinformation, outdated references and memes are finding new life through geriatric scrollers. Hawk Tuah is one thing, but Charlie bit my finger is over 10 years old, how has my dad found and distributed this to everyone as if it's news of a ceasefire in Ukraine.

The Australian government has put measures in place to protect the younger population from the adversities of unrestricted internet use. It is time we propose similar guidelines to promote healthier digital habits for our older citizens. Restricting social media use for those over 60 will help minimise the spread of misinformation and also protect this demographic from potential risks associated with online scams, privacy breaches and general embarrassment.

Maybe some sort of test, similar to driving tests for the elderly, is required to decide whether or not someone is fit to still use internet highways. It could be as simple as showing an AFLW player celebrating a goal on Facebook and asking for their best comment on this post?

While this might appear significant, it is not unheard of. Countries like China have introduced policies targeting different age groups to curb excessive internet use. Why can't Australia lead the way in promoting a healthier digital lifestyle for everyone, regardless of age?

Join me in urging the Australian government to consider this necessary change. Together, we can help create a more responsible, informed, and well-balanced community.

Sign this petition to demand action towards banning social media use for Australians aged 60 and above. Your support can drive a meaningful and impactful change and make this holiday period all the more bearable.