In recent months, there has been growing debate in Australia over the presence of gambling advertisements during live sports broadcasts. Many argue that these ads normalise betting and pose a risk to vulnerable audiences, particularly younger viewers. As a result, the Australian government has been negotiating new regulations to curb or ban gambling ads during live sport. This topic raises important questions about the balance between corporate interests, public health, and the role of government in regulating advertising. Should gambling ads be banned during live sport? What are the potential impacts of such a decision?

South Australia is considering a ban on social media for under 14-year-olds primarily to address concerns about the negative effects of social media on young people’s mental health, well-being, and development. The proposal aims to mitigate risks such as cyberbullying, exposure to inappropriate content, and the pressure of social media-induced self-esteem issues. 

Advocates for the ban argue that younger users are particularly vulnerable to these risks and that age restrictions could help protect them from potential harm. Additionally, proponents believe that restricting access might encourage healthier online behaviors and provide more time for young people to develop critical thinking and interpersonal skills outside of the digital sphere. 

Critics, however, argue that such a ban might be difficult to enforce and could potentially limit the educational and social benefits that social media platforms can offer when used responsibly. They also suggest that digital literacy education and parental guidance might be more effective strategies for ensuring safe and responsible use of social media by children. 

For the past few years, it’s been impossible to escape the impact of inflation. Meeting our most basic needs – such as food, housing and healthcare – now costs significantly more, and wage increases haven't kept up.

Australia now finds itself in the midst of an economic downturn, putting further pressure on households. What should be done to help Australians during the cost-of-living crisis?

• Submit a proposal to your teacher on TEAMS page (Holiday Homework - Due: Week 1, Term 2)

• Draft a point of view speech and submit on your TEAMS page (Holiday Homework - Due: Week 1, Term 2) 

• Refine and edit point of view speech (Week 4, Term 2)

• Rehearse.  

• Publish final copy to your TEAMS page and present point of view speech (Week 5, Term 2)

The "wage versus age" issue in Australia pertains to the differences in wages, especially junior wages. Younger workers, particularly those just entering the workforce or in early-career stages, often earn lower wages and are discriminated against based on their age. One of the primary concerns is that junior wages, which are lower rates paid to younger workers or those with less experience, can be perceived as unfair. If a young worker performs the same tasks as an older, more experienced worker, the lower pay for juniors can seem unjust and discriminatory.

While e-scooters offer potential benefits for urban mobility, there are many challenges associated with safety, regulation, and community integration. There have been numerous reports of accidents involving e-scooters, both for riders and pedestrians. The lack of protective gear among riders exacerbates these risks. In addition, Melbourne’s bike lanes and footpaths are often not designed to accommodate the rapid influx of e-scooters, leading to potential conflicts between different types of users.