Independent candidate for Farrer, Michelle Milthorpe has called for real solutions to social media issues facing young people.

Ms Milthorpe has spoken out about the Federal Government's proposed ban on social media for Australians under 16, calling it a "quick fix" that fails to address the root causes of social media misuse among young people.

Ms Milthorpe said she is overly familiar with the negative impacts of social media.

She believes the policy is more about public appeasement than real protection, ignoring the fundamental role that cyber literacy and responsible digital engagement must play in helping young Australians navigate online spaces safely.

"As an educator, I'm all too aware of the negative impact social media misuse can have on the lives of young people," she said.

"A ban alone will not solve this problem.

“Instead, we need to ensure that cyber literacy is a fundamental part of the national curriculum across all age groups, equipping young Australians to navigate these platforms safely and responsibly."

Ms Milthorpe's criticism reflects widespread concerns among experts. Government-funded research from the eSafety Commissioner shows that the vast majority of teenagers aged 12 to 17 could easily bypass such restrictions. With young people increasingly savvy in digital spaces, Ms Milthorpe argues that attempting to simply block access misses the mark.

"A reactive policy like this one does little to address the real issues," she added. "This ban can only work if it is coupled with a robust curriculum that focuses on educating our youth on safe, informed online practices.

“Cyber literacy needs to be taught as part of a lifelong skill set, starting in primary school and continuing through to young adulthood."