Parents as Partners- The Gap State High School

Navigating New Social Media Changes: How Parents Can Support Their Teens

From the end of this year, major changes are coming to how young people in Australia access and use social media. The Australian Government’s new Online Safety Amendment (Social Media Minimum Age) laws will soon require social media platforms to take stronger steps to prevent children under 16 from creating or maintaining accounts.

These reforms are designed to protect young people from online harms such as cyberbullying, exposure to inappropriate content, and the negative mental health impacts of excessive screen time.

What’s changing

  • Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, Facebook and YouTube will soon need to verify the ages of users and block under-age accounts.
  • Companies that fail to comply may face significant penalties.
  • Messaging, gaming, and learning platforms are not included in these restrictions, the focus is on social media sites that rely on personal sharing and public interaction.
  • These changes are expected to take effect by December 2025, but platforms are already preparing for compliance.

How parents can help their children through the transition

1. Talk early and often

Have open, age-appropriate conversations about why the government is changing the rules. Emphasise that it’s about safety and wellbeing, not punishment or restriction. Encourage your child to share how they feel, many teens use social media for connection and creativity, and this shift may feel like a loss.

 

2. Make a “Digital Transition Plan” together 

Discuss what might happen if their accounts are restricted. Explore alternative ways to stay connected, such as group chats, clubs, or creative projects. If your child uses social media for hobbies like art or music, consider supervised or family-shared accounts.

 

3. Strengthen digital literacy 

Help your child understand how algorithms, ads and influencers work. Ask questions like, “Why do you think this video was recommended to you?” or “How does this content make you feel?” Encouraging critical thinking builds resilience to online pressures.

 

4. Review privacy and safety settings 

Use built-in parental tools and privacy controls on devices and apps. The eSafety Commissioner website (www.esafety.gov.au) provides excellent Queensland-relevant guides and video tutorials for parents on managing online use.

 

5. Create a family social media agreement 

Set shared boundaries around when and how devices are used eg. no phones during meals, or device-free time before bed. Revisit these agreements each term as your child matures.

 

6. Focus on connection beyond the screen 

Encourage in-person friendships, physical activity, and creative outlets. Queensland research consistently shows that strong family and community connections are protective factors for mental health.

Helpful resources for Queensland families

  • eSafety Commissioner – www.esafety.gov.au
  • Parentline QLD & NT – 1300 30 1300
  • Headspace – www.headspace.org.au
  • SchoolTV: Mental Health Week Edition – via your school’s website
  • Kids Helpline – 1800 55 1800

 

Parent Tip:

“Before you post, pause.” Ask your child: Who might see this? How could it make others feel? Would I be okay if this was shared more widely? Small reflections like this help build digital responsibility and emotional awareness.