At batyr, we know how important it is to have spaces - online and offline - where young people feel heard, seen, and supported. Here’s a quick overview of what’s changing, why it’s happening, and how adults can help young people navigate this big shift.

From December 10, 2025, social media platforms will no longer be allowed to let people under 16 create or keep an account.

This means:

• Existing accounts for under-16s will likely be deactivated.
• New accounts can’t be created until someone turns 16.

These laws were introduced to protect young people’s mental health and wellbeing - recognising that social media can be both a source of connection and a source of harm.

The government says the goal is to reduce the negative impacts of social media - such as exposure to harmful content, online bullying, or the pressure to constantly compare yourself to others.

Research shows that long hours online can affect sleep, focus, and stress levels, especially during the teenage years. The idea behind the ban is to give young people more time to develop:

• Digital literacy
• Critical thinking
• Impulse control
• Resilience

In short: time to grow the skills needed to use social media safely, confidently, and in ways that support their wellbeing.

This law applies to everyone under 16 in Australia, starting 10 December 2025. Even with a parent or guardian’s permission, young people under 16 won’t be able to have accounts on most major social media platforms.

Platforms expected to be affected include:

• TikTok
• Instagram
• Snapchat
• YouTube
• Reddit
• Facebook
• X (Twitter)

Some apps and services will be exempt, such as messaging apps (like WhatsApp) and education or health tools (like Google Classroom, Kids Helpline, or eheadspace).

Social media platforms will be required to verify users’ ages using tools such as ID checks, facial analysis, or behavioural data. They’ll also need to remove underage accounts and create a process for anyone over 16 who’s flagged incorrectly to appeal.

If a 16-year-old is mistakenly locked out, they’ll be able to prove their age through a review process.

Most platforms will deactivate under-16 accounts - and some may offer the chance to reactivate once the person turns 16. However, not all will keep saved posts or messages.

Encouraging young people to download or back up their photos, videos, and chats before 10 December is a good idea, just in case.

It might be tempting to bypass the rules by entering a false birthdate, but doing so can expose young people to adult or unsafe content, and increase risks to their mental health and privacy.

It’s also important to note that young people and parents won’t be punished for breaking the rules - the responsibility sits with the social media platforms to comply with the law.

This shift will look and feel different for everyone. Some young people may feel relieved to take a break from social media pressures; others may feel disconnected or left out.

Parents, carers, and teachers can help by:

• Starting open conversations - ask how they feel about the changes, and listen without judgement.
• Exploring alternative ways to connect - like messaging apps, gaming communities, group activities, or creative hobbies.
• Encouraging digital wellbeing - talk about safe online spaces and healthy tech habits.
• Reassuring them they’re not alone - this change is happening for everyone their age, across Australia.

Social media might be changing, but the need for connection and community never will. At batyr, we’ll continue to create spaces - both in-person and online - where young people can connect, share, and support each other through life’s changes.

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis and is in immediate danger of harming themselves or others, call 000. You can find a comprehensive list of mental health support services here.

*Information is correct at date of publishing. You can find the most up to date information regarding the social media at esafety.gov.au.