Olympian Sam Fricker Speaks Out Against Social Media Ban: A Threat To Young Creators?

Raising Concerns: A Diver's Perspective

Australian Olympian and YouTube sensation Sam Fricker is making waves with his latest concerns. The 23-year-old diver, who skyrocketed to fame after representing Australia in the Tokyo 2021 Olympics, has built a robust online presence with 5.8 million YouTube subscribers. But now, he's worried that the Albanese government's impending social media ban might crush the dreams of aspiring young creators.

Fricker's journey on YouTube began in 2013, back when he was still a school kid with big dreams. Today, his channel is a hub for educational diving content aimed at young fans eager to dive into the sport. Speaking to Sky News, Fricker shared how the platform has been instrumental in shaping his career and personal growth. "It's really shaped my life," he revealed. "As a kid, I watched Olympic athletes train and compete and aspired to be like them one day."

The Impact of YouTube: More Than Just Videos

For Sam Fricker, YouTube isn't just a platform—it's a lifeline. Aside from diving tutorials, the site was a learning ground for his entrepreneurial ventures, like his sustainable straw business. "I watched entrepreneurs about how to start a business," he said. "My first company, Sam's Straws, I actually learned the principles of how to start a business, like getting an ABN, how to set up barcodes from GS1, put them on your products, and send them around the world."

With the ban set to take effect on December 10, Fricker fears that young Australians will miss out on similar opportunities. He believes the platform is rich with educational resources, from language lessons to sporting tips. "I think the concern for me is I was given these opportunities as a kid to watch YouTube and learn from these people, and a lot of young people may be stripped of that opportunity," he stated.

Critique and Concerns Over the New Ban

The upcoming laws will prevent kids under 16 from creating accounts on platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok. eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant added fuel to the fire by comparing YouTubers to OnlyFans creators, sparking industry-wide debate. Fricker, however, dismisses the comparison, maintaining that YouTube serves as a legitimate educational platform.

"I don't think that [OnlyFans] should be considered within this conversation at all," Fricker countered. He's concerned that the ban might limit young Australians' digital literacy, a skill crucial in today's fast-paced, tech-driven world. "YouTube Kids is a great example. Kids have an account, they're fed safe content, and it's moderated by YouTube," he pointed out.

As Australia becomes the first country to implement such a ban, Fricker stresses the need for a balanced approach that protects young users without curtailing their creative freedom. "I think every Australian could agree we need to look after our young," Fricker said, emphasizing the importance of alternative solutions like better education and parental oversight.

Awaiting the Outcome

With the ban looming, Fricker and other content creators are left in suspense, uncertain about the future implications on their craft. "We really don't know," Fricker admitted, "and no one will know until the ban comes into effect. So it's kind of a waiting game at the moment to see what happens once it comes into place."

While the intentions behind the ban may be rooted in protecting young Australians, Fricker argues that the blanket approach may do more harm than good. He urges policymakers to consider the multifaceted role platforms like YouTube play in education and self-expression. As the date approaches, the world watches closely to see how this bold move will unfold.