Wellbeing & Inclusion News
Supporting Young People Through the Social Media Delay
From 10 December 2025, new Australian legislation will prevent young people under 16 from creating or maintaining accounts on most major social media platforms, including TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat, YouTube, Facebook, X, Reddit and Kick.
Led by the eSafety Commissioner, this change is designed to reduce online harms such as cyberbullying, exposure to inappropriate content, and addictive platform features. It isn’t a ban—it’s a delay. Families can confidently say “not yet,” knowing all children under 16 will be waiting together.
Why This Matters
Research shows early exposure to social media can impact sleep, concentration, self-esteem and overall mental health. Delaying access gives young people more time to develop resilience, emotional regulation and digital literacy before entering the online world.
How Families Can Support Young People
- Start the conversation early: Explain what’s changing and why.
- Acknowledge their feelings: Social media may feel tied to identity and friendships.
- Offer alternatives: Encourage creative, social and physical activities offline.
- Model healthy habits: Show mindful screen use and positive online behaviour.
The eSafety Commissioner and Kids Helpline provide helpful resources for families, including:
- Get-ready guide
- How to talk about social media age restrictions with under-16s (with conversation starters)
- Social media age restrictions explained – webinars for parents and carers
Why the age restrictions are happening – video for young people, parents, carers and educators
Additional Support Services
- Kids Helpline: Free, confidential support for ages 5–25 – 1800 55 1800 | kidshelpline.com.au
- Beyond Blue: Mental health support for all ages – 1300 22 4636 | beyondblue.org.au
- Headspace: Youth mental health services for ages 12–25 – 1800 650 890 | headspace.org.au
- 13Yarn: Support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples – 13 92 76 | 13yarn.org.au
