Wellbeing

“Swimming between the Digital Flags” - How the social media age restrictions help keep under-16s safer.

Article by Kay Bevan & Amy Walker

As you will likely have heard, a world-first social media age restriction will be coming into effect in Australia on December 10 this year. These restrictions are part of an effort by the Australian Government to protect young Australians at a critical stage of their development.  They will change how children connect on-line. 

Preparation is a key contributor to greater resilience and well-being. Being informed, thinking through how these changes may affect you and your family, as well as how you might approach them in the most effective way. 

The eSafety Commission has helpful information and FAQs about the Social Media Age-Restrictions on their website.

Two good entry points are:

•  this video from the eSafety Commissisoner, Julie Inman Grant, in which she explains the purpose of the age verification and how it will be rolled out. 

• the poster below:

Australia is building a culture of on-line safety. The internet, just like the ocean, will be a constant fixture. And our kids are already dipping their toes in the water.  eSafety is tantamount to the on-line lifeguard that you need, and we’ve got the flags, the swimming lessons and the safety tips required to help you support your kids - eSafety Commissioner - Julie Inman Grant

Whether a change is something you are looking forward to or something you are dreading, preparing thoughtfully for significant family or societal changes can meaningfully support wellbeing during transitions. When families approach change proactively rather than simply reacting to it, they’re better positioned to manage stress, maintain connection, and identify opportunities within the transition. By making realistic plans, developing coping strategies, and building healthy habits, people are better equipped to handle stress and bounce back from adversity, leading to improved mental and emotional health. 

The act of preparing itself also provides immediate benefits and creates a positive cascade of self-efficacy. Working together on this as a family, can help your children develop their own capacity to navigate future changes – they learn by observing and participating in how their family reflects, adapts, and problem-solves together.