Wellbeing & Safeguarding

Social Media Minimum Age Law – What Parents Need to Know 

From 10 December 2025, social media platforms must block and remove accounts for children under 16 who live in Australia. This is part of a new law designed to protect young people online. 

What’s changing? 

• Children under 16 will no longer be able to use age-restricted platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Snapchat. 
• Platforms must detect and prevent underage sign-ups. 
• If a child’s account is removed, they’ll be notified and given a chance to download their data. 
•  

Why is this happening? This law shifts responsibility from families to platforms. It’s not about punishment—it’s about creating safer online spaces and giving children time to grow before engaging with adult-designed platforms.

What can parents do? 

• Talk with your child about the change. 
• Acknowledge their feelings—some may feel relieved, others upset. 
• Support them through the transition and explore alternative ways to stay connected. 

To download a free ‘helping families prepare’ guide click here 

For more information, visit the eSafety website.: https://www.esafety.gov.au/industry/regulatory-guidance#social-media-minimum-age