Preparing your child for the social media changes coming on 10 December

With just under a month until new rules around social media for children come into effect many people are wondering what it means.  

From 10 December, children under 16 will no longer be able to sign up to certain social media platforms in Australia. 

selectability's therapeutic advisor for child and family care, Nicola Pennington, said the change was about keeping children safe, not stopping them from being online. 

"These new rules aren’t meant to be a punishment; it’s about safeguarding children. It’s a pause button that protects developing brains to learn how to use technology safely at an age-appropriate pace," said Nicola. 

"By talking early and exploring alternatives together, you can help your child adapt and feel confident about their digital future." 

At selectability, we care for children who may be affected by this law and are committed to protecting their safety and wellbeing. We support them to navigate changes like these and stay safe online.

If you also care for a child who was looking forward to their first account, or already uses one of the affected apps, here are some ways to talk with them and help them adjust.

What is changing and why 

• The new law (the Online Safety Amendment - Social Media Minimum Age - Bill 2024) sets a minimum age of 16 for some social media accounts. 
• Parents or carers cannot give permission for a child under 16 to use these platforms. 
• The change aims to protect children’s mental health, wellbeing and safety online. 
• The exact platforms covered are still being finalised. Early indications suggest the most popular apps for young people will be included. 
• Platforms must take reasonable steps to prevent under 16s from having accounts. 

Why this might feel hard for your child 

If your child was expecting to get their first account, they might feel disappointed or left out. If they already use social media, they might feel frustrated or anxious about losing access.  

They may worry about missing out on chats, trends or social connection. 

These feelings are valid. Change can feel unfair or isolating, even when it is meant to help. 

How to talk about it with your child 

1. Start the conversation early 

   Explain that from 10 December the rules will be different. Say something simple like “From that date, some apps you use or want to use will no longer be available for under 16s.” 

2. Acknowledge their feelings 

   “I know you were looking forward to having that account” or “I understand it might feel unfair that things are changing.” 

3. Explain the reason 

   Talk about why the change is happening. It is to help keep young people safer online and reduce risks like harmful content, bullying and unsafe contact. 

4. Focus on what stays the same 

   They can still connect with friends, explore interests and learn new things, just in other ways or on age-appropriate platforms. 

5. Work together on alternatives 

   Ask “What can we find that gives you connection and fun in a safe way?” 
   Explore: 
   - age-appropriate apps or games
   - offline ways to connect, such as sports or hobbies 
   - ways to stay in touch with family, community or interest groups 

6. Give them a say 

   Ask “What matters most to you online?” or “What kind of online space do you enjoy?” 
   Use their answers to build a plan together. 

7. Set new routines together 

   Refresh how screen time works in your home. Agree on when to use devices, which apps are okay, and how to switch off. 

8. Stay supportive 

   If they feel angry or upset, listen without judgment. Help them find other ways to connect and enjoy their time. 

Practical steps for families 

• Check which apps your child uses and whether they will be affected. 
• Research age-appropriate platforms, games or hobby sites that are safe to use. 
• Have regular digital check-ins. Talk about what they do online, how they feel and what they enjoy. 
• Encourage offline time as something positive. 
• Model good habits yourself. Show balance between screens and other activities. 
• If your child is close to 16, help them plan how to safely use social media in the future. 

What to look out for 

• Changes in mood, such as frustration, sadness or withdrawal 
• Worries about missing out on friends or trends 
• The need for reassurance and connection. 

Support them by encouraging real-life friendships and open communication. Use this change as a chance to talk about healthy screen use and safe online behaviour. 

Keep in mind 

This change is not about stopping young people from being online. It is about making sure they are safe and supported while they grow. 
By talking early and exploring alternatives together, you can help your child adapt and feel confident about their digital future.