Two 15-year-olds have launched a High Court challenge against the federal government’s social media ban, with content-creating families across Australia backing their fight.
The Babic family, whose lives play out on screen through family games nights, birthdays and everyday chores, are among those opposing the new restrictions set to take effect on December 10.
WATCH THE VIDEO ABOVE: Families fight back against social media ban
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For mum Courtney and her kids, social media is not just entertainment but a place for them to generate income through live streaming to product endorsements.
“We use social media to connect as a family and teach rather than restrict,” Courtney said.
It is also a place to learn, the NSW family said.
Despite the dangers lurking online, the parents insist their children are safe.
“I have full access over their accounts. We have a very open communication around social media,” Courtney explained.
The Babic family have hit out at the social media ban for young Australians. Credit: 7NEWS While polls show strong support for the ban among Australian parents, about 65 to 75 per cent depending on which survey you read.
On the flip side, it suggests a quarter to a third of parents oppose it.
Social media giants are about to collect mountains of personal data, including passports and driver’s licences, to verify users’ ages.
Given recent data breaches at major companies like Qantas, Optus and Medibank, concerns are mounting about whether social media companies can keep this information secure.
“I trust them with my information about as much as I trust my dog with an unguarded stake,” cyber security expert Luke Irwin told 7NEWS
The Babic family wants to see exemptions for children who can demonstrate social media is their job.
“Maybe getting permits, making sure that these children have ABNs … before just completely banning social media,” Courtney said.