NZGDA Submission on the terms of reference into the online harms investigation
20 July 2025

We’ve made a submission to the Education and Workforce Committee on the Inquiry into Online Harm experienced by young people. While we support efforts to keep rangatahi safe online, we strongly urge that video games not be lumped in with social media. Games offer structured, creative, and purpose-built experiences—not open-ended, algorithm-driven environments like social platforms.

Video games are already subject to age ratings, moderation tools, and parental controls. They also play an increasingly positive role in education, wellbeing, and social connection. Regulation should be evidence-based, targeted, and avoid unintentionally restricting access to one of Aotearoa’s most successful creative industries.

Read the full submission here:Online Harms Investigation submission July25