Social Media Age Restrictions – Important Update for Families

You may have seen recent media coverage about changes to social media access for young people. From mid-December, children under the age of 16 will no longer be permitted to hold accounts on certain social media platforms. This will apply to Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, TikTok, YouTube, and others. Please note that this is not a total ban, but rather a delay in access until students are older. Online gaming and standalone messaging apps are excluded from these new rules.

Why does this matter?
Being logged into social media accounts can increase the likelihood that under-16s are exposed to pressures and risks that are difficult to manage—such as the constant pull of notifications, or exposure to harmful and inappropriate content. In schools, we see the negative impacts of this regularly on student wellbeing. By delaying access until 16, young people are given more time to develop digital literacy, critical reasoning, impulse control, and greater resilience—skills that help them navigate online spaces more safely.

As parents and carers, it is important to:

• Talk openly with your children about the new age restrictions.
• Reflect on how they are currently using social media.
• Consider how these changes may affect them.
  
  

The eSafety Commissioner will be providing guidance and resources to help families prepare for this transition. I encourage you to visit their website for practical tips and up-to-date information:

eSafety Commissioner – Social Media Age Restrictions

If you would like support or to discuss your child’s access to social media, please don’t hesitate to contact the school and speak with a member of our Wellbeing Team.

God bless,

Mrs Angela Myles | Executive Principal