Indigenous Leaders Advocate for Safer Online Spaces for Future Generations

Indigenous leaders and community advocates have highlighted the importance of social media as a tool for cultural pride while calling for stronger protections for young people. Speaking at a Cairns sitting of the federal government's inquiry into racism on 30 July 2026, representatives from the Cairns-based organisation Deadly Inspiring Youth Doing Good (DIYDG) shared their vision for a safer digital landscape. Merissa Nona and Stacee Ketchell from DIYDG addressed the Joint Standing Committee on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs, emphasizing that social media remains essential for sharing First Nations culture with the global community. Despite the challenges of online commentary, Ms Ketchell noted that platforms allow for the celebration of identity during events like NAIDOC Week. However, she advocated for social media regulation to be informed by those with lived experience, suggesting that current moderation approaches need more Indigenous perspectives to be effective. The inquiry also heard from Nicole Huxley, an elder from the remote community of Jumbun. Ms Huxley spoke of the resilience of Indigenous children and the importance of raising them to be proud of their heritage. She cited the joy of children participating in cultural dances and expressed a desire for a future where all children can participate in wider society without fear of negativity. Ms Huxley called on community members, publishers, and government agencies to work together to ensure a positive environment for the next generation. As the inquiry continues, it is set to travel to the Torres Strait before moving on to Hobart and Melbourne. The discussions in Cairns underscore a growing movement toward ensuring digital platforms serve as spaces that empower Indigenous identity and foster a "better world" for all human beings, as articulated by Ms Huxley.