Starting 10 December 2025, a major change occurs in how Australians under 16 can use social media. Certain social media platforms will have to take reasonable steps to stop under-16s from creating or keeping accounts, these include Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, X, YouTube, Reddit and Kick. It is expected that such platforms must prevent under-16s from using their services in the same way as older users. These rules apply not just for new accounts, with the request that existing under-16 accounts be deactivated or removed also.

How It Will Work

· Platforms will need to use age-assurance methods to verify users’ ages.

· There are no legal penalties for kids or parents if a child under 16 tries to access a restricted site — the law targets the companies, not families.

· Some platforms are excluded from the rules: for instance, basic messaging apps, online gaming, and educational or health-oriented services are not covered.

What Families and Teens Can Do Now

· If you or your child has an existing account: think about downloading any data (photos and messages) before December.

· Use the following resources from the esafety commission to talk through what is changing and when with your child - https://www.esafety.gov.au/about-us/industry-regulation/social-media-age-restrictions-hub

· Stay updated on which platforms are age restricted as this could still change

These new laws aim to protect young people during a critical stage of growing up and the confidence to build real-life social skills and resilience. As a College we are committed to ensuring that our students are following these laws and we will continue to support our young people and our families regarding online safety.