Wellbeing Wins
Quick Reminder: Social Media Changes for Under-16s
A reminder that the national social media restrictions for under-16s begin this month. Major platforms will be limiting or removing accounts belonging to users under 16, and families may notice some changes to access or app availability.
While platforms are responsible for implementing the ban, it’s helpful to:
- Check in with your teen about how they’re feeling about the changes
- Discuss safe and healthy ways of staying connected with friends
- Revisit your family’s expectations around online behaviour and screen time
If you’d like more detail, please refer to the e-Safety Commissioner's website. Parents | eSafety Commissioner
This online book created by the e-Safety Comissioner covers some of the key online safety issues for young people and includes a range of practical tips and advice on what to do if things go wrong. You can also find a list of important services that can offer extra support.
Summer Holiday Safety for Young People
As we head into the long Christmas break, it’s important to support our young people to enjoy their holidays safely, responsibly and confidently. Youth Solutions have created the Turning Summer Safer campaign, which is all about discovering tips and inspiration on how to have a fun, memorable and safe summer.
Here are some key tips that you can suggest for your young person, adapted from Youth Solutions’ Celebrating Safely resources:
🌞 Looking After Themselves
- Stay hydrated — carry a water bottle when out with friends or at events.
- Eat regularly — having proper meals helps maintain energy and contributes to overall wellbeing during busy summer days.
- Plan ahead — talk about where they’re going, who they’re with, and how they’ll get home.
- If older teens are around situations where alcohol may be present, encourage them to make safe, informed choices and look out for one another.
🤝 Looking Out for Friends
- Encourage young people to stick together, especially at gatherings or unfamiliar places.
- Make a habit of checking in with each other — is everyone feeling okay? Does someone need a break, a ride home, or a trusted adult?
- Remind them that if something doesn’t feel right, it’s okay to call a parent, caregiver or trusted adult for help.
🧠 Safe Decision-Making
- Help your teen think through possible scenarios (e.g., getting separated from friends, feeling uncomfortable in a situation) and how they could respond.
- Encourage them to trust their instincts — they’re allowed to say “no”, leave a situation, or ask for help.
- Go over emergency contacts:
- 000 for immediate emergencies
- Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800 for confidential support
- Save a trusted adult’s number in their phone
🚕 Getting Home Safely
- Discuss reliable ways home — pre-arranged pick-ups, public transport plans, or travelling with trusted friends.
- Make sure they know it’s always okay to call home if plans change or they feel unsafe.
For more tips and youth-friendly safety information, you can visit Celebrating Safely - Youth Solutions - Promoting Health, Preventing Harm