Chanel Contos to Warn of Social Media Risks at Press Club
Published by YuToday Staff
0 views · 10 hours ago · 3:41 read · September 2, 2026
Chanel Contos, the founder of Teach Us Consent, is set to address the National Press Club today in a high-profile speech that will link social media algorithms to the alarming rise in sexual violence among young Australians. Her second appearance before the press club follows months of advocacy and comes as the Albanese government faces pressure to address online harms.
Key takeaways
- Chanel Contos will warn of social media algorithms fueling sexual violence among youth at the National Press Club today.
- Australia’s climate summit faces low international attendance despite government efforts to secure high-level delegates.
- National accounts data reveals economic challenges, with 93% of suburbs experiencing property price declines in August.
- Nepal’s death toll from floods exceeds 1,000, while the number of missing Australians has been revised down.
Contos to Highlight Algorithmic Harm in Youth Exposure
Chanel Contos will argue that social media algorithms are systematically exposing young, impressionable users to harmful content, exacerbating rates of sexual violence in Australia. Her claims are based on data from Teach Us Consent, which has tracked a surge in reported incidents linked to online interactions. The speech is expected to call for stricter regulations on tech platforms, particularly those targeting minors. Contos has previously criticized the lack of accountability among social media companies, urging policymakers to prioritize child safety over corporate profits. Her address follows a series of high-profile cases involving minors and online exploitation.
Government Struggles to Secure Climate Summit Attendance
Despite aggressive lobbying efforts, the Albanese government has secured only five non-Pacific leaders for an upcoming UN climate event in Fiji and Tuvalu next month. The event, aimed at galvanizing global action on climate change, has seen lukewarm international response, raising questions about Australia’s diplomatic influence. Sources suggest that geopolitical tensions and competing priorities have dampened enthusiasm among potential attendees. The low turnout contrasts with the government’s ambitious climate commitments, including its pledge to reduce emissions by 43% by 2030. Critics argue that without high-level participation, the event risks becoming symbolic rather than impactful.
National Accounts Reveal Economic Strain as Prices Fall
Treasurer Jim Chalmers will address the media today following the release of national accounts data from the June quarter, which showed broad-based economic challenges. While the full details remain under analysis, preliminary reports indicate subdued growth and rising cost-of-living pressures. The data comes as a new Commonwealth Bank report reveals that 93% of Australian suburbs experienced price declines in August, signaling a potential shift in the housing market. Economists warn that falling property values could further strain household wealth and consumer confidence. The treasurer is expected to outline measures to bolster economic resilience amid these headwinds.
Nepal Floods: Missing Australians Revised Down, Death Toll Climbs
The death toll from catastrophic floods in Nepal has surpassed 1,000, with Australian authorities revising the number of missing citizens downward. The disaster, which has devastated infrastructure and displaced thousands, has prompted international aid efforts. While the exact number of Australians affected remains unconfirmed, officials have praised the swift response from local and global rescue teams. The floods, triggered by relentless monsoon rains, have submerged entire villages and cut off access to remote regions. Recovery operations are ongoing, with concerns about disease outbreaks and food shortages growing.
US Launches Strikes on Iran After Months of Tensions
The United States has conducted its first military strikes on Iran in months, escalating tensions in the region. The action follows a series of provocations, including attacks on US interests and allies. While details of the strikes remain limited, analysts suggest they targeted Iranian-backed militia positions. The move risks further destabilizing the Middle East, where proxy conflicts have already fueled humanitarian crises. Iran has condemned the strikes as an act of aggression, vowing retaliation. The international community is closely monitoring the situation for signs of escalation.
What happens next
Over the coming weeks, policymakers will face mounting pressure to address the issues highlighted in today’s developments. Contos’ speech could spark renewed calls for tech regulation, while the climate summit’s low attendance may prompt the government to reassess its diplomatic strategies. Meanwhile, the US-Iran tensions and Nepal’s flood recovery efforts will remain critical areas of focus for global observers.
People also ask
What will Chanel Contos discuss at the National Press Club?
Contos will address the role of social media algorithms in exposing young users to harmful content and its link to rising sexual violence in Australia.
How many non-Pacific leaders will attend Australia’s UN climate event?
Only five leaders from outside the Pacific region are expected to attend the event in Fiji and Tuvalu next month.
What do the latest national accounts data reveal about Australia’s economy?
The data indicates subdued economic growth and falling property prices, with 93% of suburbs recording price declines in August.
What is the current status of the Nepal floods?
The death toll has surpassed 1,000, and recovery operations are ongoing, though the number of missing Australians has been revised downward.