Navigating the Shift in Social Media Age Limits

Governments and major social media platforms are tightening age limits to better protect young users online. In Australia, the Online Safety Amendment (Social Media Minimum Age) Act 2024 requires platforms to take stronger steps to prevent children under 16 from accessing social media without verified parental consent. For families of younger children - particularly those aged 8 to 16 - these changes highlight the need for early conversations about online use, digital wellbeing and realistic expectations.

“While some children are eager to join social media, it’s important to remember that these limits are designed to protect them,” said Peter Coombs, Principal of Helena College.

“The goal isn’t to restrict children’s social lives, but to help them build the skills and judgment they’ll need to navigate online spaces safely and confidently when the time comes.”

Understanding the changes

The new laws will make it more difficult for children below the minimum age to create accounts on mainstream platforms such as TikTok, Instagram and Snapchat. Platforms will also be expected to strengthen age verification and enforce existing restrictions.

According to Mr Coombs, these shifts are a reminder that digital readiness is just as important as academic or social readiness.

“Delaying access to these platforms will give parents, carers, and educators more time to help children prepare for the challenges of social media, while supporting them to build resilience and develop critical thinking and communication skills,’ he said.

Supporting children aged 8-10 through the transition

Children may feel disappointed or frustrated if they can’t join platforms their friends are using. Families can help by taking a proactive and empathetic approach.

• Start open conversations early: Explain that the new age limits are about safety, not punishment. Invite your child to share how they feel and listen with empathy.
• Set a clear plan: Agree on a timeline for when social media use might be revisited, and outline expectations for responsible use.
• Offer alternatives: Encourage age-appropriate ways to connect with peers—through creative apps, supervised online games, or real-world activities.
• Build digital literacy: Use this waiting period to explore topics like online privacy, kindness and critical thinking together.
• Model healthy habits: Children learn as much from observing adults’ online behaviour as from the rules that are set for them.

For families with older children aged 10–16

Older children and teens may feel the impact of these changes more immediately, especially those who already use social media or are about to reach the age where they expected to start. Parents can help by focusing on collaboration rather than control.

• Acknowledge the impact: If your child already has a social media account, talk about how the new rules might affect them. Recognise that losing or limiting access could feel unfair or isolating.
• Review privacy and safety settings together: Use this as an opportunity to review each app’s settings, discuss what’s shared publicly, and remove any content or connections that may not be appropriate.
• Create gradual independence: If your child is approaching the new minimum age, set milestones for earning greater responsibility - such as demonstrating positive digital behaviour, managing screen time, or handling peer interactions respectfully.
• Stay informed and involved: Follow updates from the eSafety Commissioner and trusted education partners such as ySafe, so you can give your child accurate information and reassurance as the changes roll out.

Guidance and resources for families

To support families navigating these changes, Helena College has partnered with ySafe, one of Australia’s leading cybersafety educators. Through this partnership, parents and carers can access practical tools on topics such as parental controls, app reviews and social media safety via the College’s Cybersafety Hub, accessible through our website.

The College also encourages families to explore the eSafety Commissioner’s resources, which offer current guidance on managing social media age restrictions and building positive online habits at home.

“These changes give families a valuable opportunity,” said Mr Coombs. “By having calm, ongoing conversations now, parents can set their children up for success - ensuring they enter the digital world safely, confidently and with the right support.”