While all the TV morning shows are talking about the social media ban, so far we haven’t seen Communications Minister Anika Wells talk about the world-first rules she has championed since she took up the portfolio this term.
Wells is expected on the radio this morning.
Anika Wells’ plan to spend the week focused on the social media ban has been derailed by a week of headlines about her use.Credit: Alex Ellinghausen
Her plan to spend the week focused on the social media ban has been derailed by a week of headlines about her use of entitlements for expensive flights, accommodation and use of free tickets to sports finals and shows. Yesterday, she referred her expenses to parliamentary watchdog, the Independent Parliamentary Expenses Authority, to review, hoping for clear air today.
Her Coalition counterpart, communications spokeswoman Melissa McIntosh gave the ban cautious support for “the intent of protecting kids online”.
“Today I know that there will be a lot of stressed parents, families, kids out there, so I hope that the government has also put some investment into mental health support for young people who might be struggling over this period”, she told Nine’s Today.
“I want the government now to ensure this is successful for Australian children. And you know, we’ll be keeping a close eye on it. But as you said, it’s today, and it’s happening now. It’s up to the government to do the right thing.”