Student Wellbeing
MHFA Guidance: Assisting those affected by social media access changes
From 10 December 2025, access to a range of social media platforms is restricted for Australians under the age of 16.
For many young people, this change may be a major shift in how they connect, communicate and socialise. Some may adjust quickly, while others may find transitions more challenging. Adults may also feel pressure or uncertainty as they support young people through this transition.
Mental Health First Aid International has developed guidance for assisting those impacted by the social media access changes. The resource includes clear, practical advice, including when and how to start safe conversations and helpful things to avoid when someone is feeling overwhelmed.
Generation Next: How to help kids prepare to start high school next year
Moving from primary to high school is one of the biggest transitions in a child’s education. For some, it can be a really daunting time, moving away from friends, travelling to a new place and starting very different routines.
Preparations to start high school can begin long before the end of January – as children may have strong feelings about next year already.
How can parents help their child make this transition, using the time they have left this year and the long school holidays to come?
The GN podcast with Andrew Fuller: Supporting children and adolescents experiencing grief and loss
In this podcast, Clinical Psychologist Andrew Fuller speaks with Professor Sarah Egan about supporting children and adolescents experiencing grief and loss.
The podcast looks at the following:
- Many Children experience the loss of someone significant, yet this is often overlooked.
- Grief in children may show up as anger, behavioural issues, or physical symptoms rather than verbally
- Ways to promote language that supports adaptation instead of avoidance
- Approaches for normalising grief experiences, and encouraging re-engagement with social and pleasant activities
Support resources
65 Wattle | Girton has an onsite wellbeing centre located at 65 Wattle Street. This wellbeing centre is open to all students, and is attended by our school nurse and psychologists.
You can learn more about 65 Wattle and access the request for support form at this page on Astra. Please note that 65 Wattle will be closed during the school holidays.
Helplines | You may need additional support outside of school hours. If you require additional support, please seek that support from the resources listed below.
For immediate crisis:
- Call Triple Zero (000) if you or someone you know is in immediate danger or if there is a risk of harm.
Go to the Emergency Department for a face-to-face assessment.
Mental health support (in person, online and by phone during business hours):
Headspace: 78-80 Pall Mall, Bendigo; call 03 5406 1400; visit their website for online and phone support.
After-hours mental health support:
- Bendigo Health Regional Triage Service (MHRT): Call 1300 363 788 for 24/7 access to mental health professionals for assessment and advice.
- Lifeline: Call 13 11 14 for 24/7 crisis support.
- Kids Helpline: Call 1800 551 800.
- Beyond Blue: Visit their website for information and support, or call 1300 224 636.
- Nurse-on-Call: Call 1300 606 024 for non-emergency after-hours advice from a registered nurse.