Image credit: ABC News Australia
The Australian Government’s world-first social media ban for under 16s is expected to come into effect on 10 December 2025, following legislation passed by Parliament last November. The move is driven by growing concerns about the negative impact of social media on young people’s mental health and wellbeing.
Major platforms including TikTok, Snapchat, Reddit, Instagram, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter) - and most recently YouTube - have been flagged for the ban. YouTube Kids will still be available, and those under 16 will be able to watch videos on YouTube in a logged-out state or while under parental supervision. However, they will not be permitted to have an active YouTube account or subscribe to channels.
The Government has confirmed that ‘education and health’ services (like Google Classroom, Kids Helpline and headspace) will be exempt, along with some messaging apps and online gaming platforms. However, the final list of what’s in and what’s out is still to come.
Exactly how the ban will be enforced is not yet clear. Social media platforms will be required to verify a user’s age before allowing them to sign up, but the method for doing this is still being explored. The eSafety Commissioner is currently reviewing possible options - from ID checks to age-estimation technology - but no single approach has been locked in.
Importantly, if someone under 16 does manage to access social media once the ban is in place, the Government has said the consequence will fall on the platform - not the young person or their family.
While some parents and carers may welcome the change, young people might feel worried, frustrated or even angry. These resources can help support your family through the upcoming changes:
Raising mentally fit kids in a digital world – Smiling Mind
This article explores how screen time can affect children’s mental health, and provides practical strategies to help build healthier digital habits.
Supporting a young person through the social media ban – headspace
A thoughtful guide for parents and carers with ideas on how to open up conversations, reduce stress, and help young people feel supported.
Social Media & Young People in Australia – Orygen / Mission Australia Youth Survey report
This recent report explores how social media use affects young people’s mental health, highlighting both the risks of overuse and the potential benefits when used in moderation. It can help parents understand current youth behaviours and attitudes toward digital platforms.
[Update] 24 August