The Government's looking to Australia as it explores ways prevent online harm to young Kiwis.

On the day an under-16 social media ban began across the Tasman, our Education and Workforce Committee's released an interim report on its inquiry regarding New Zealand youth.

It reveals issues range from sexual exploitation to self-harm. 

Acting Chair Carl Bates says social media can do real harm, but it's not just about the content available.

"It's also about contact and it's about conduct, so things like the intentional use of platforms to harm or abuse others - and also the commerce harms that not only young New Zealanders experience, but others as well." 

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