From the 10th of December Australian young people under 16 will not be allowed to create or hold accounts on certain social media platforms. This is not a ban, it’s a delay to having accounts.
Being logged into an account increases the exposure under-16s have to design features that encourage them to spend more time on screens, while serving up content that can harm their health and wellbeing. The delay is an opportunity for them to build their digital literacy skills and resilience.
The restrictions are likely to apply to Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, X (formerly Twitter) and YouTube, among other platforms. See the latest list.
Information and resources along with online information sessions to support parents and carers, and young people to prepare for the change are available at eSafety’s Social media age restrictions hub.
Visit eSafety.gov.au.