New social media age restrictions bring big opportunities for kids
Healthy Harold and friends see the incoming social media age restrictions as an invitation and an opportunity for Aussie kids to do what only they can do – reclaim childhood’s wonder years
READING LEVEL: GREEN
On December 10, the Australian Government is bringing in new world-first social media age restrictions across Australia. The social media age restriction for individuals under 16 is a law in Australia, part of the Online Safety Amendment (Social Media Minimum Age) Act 2024. This law requires social media platforms to take “reasonable steps” to prevent Australians under the age of 16 from creating accounts with major platforms.
But what does this even mean?
This means young people under 16 will no longer be allowed to have accounts on certain social media platforms.
Some of the platforms affected include TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, YouTube, X (Twitter), Reddit, Threads, and Kick.
This change has been made to help protect young people by delaying having accounts, while giving you more time to enjoy your childhood in the real world and learn about the importance of online safety.
You may not understand how these restrictions are helpful, so let’s unpack it some more.
1. STAYING SAFE FROM STRANGERS AND INAPPROPRIATE CONTENT
Social media sometimes exposes young people to things they’re not ready for. With the new restrictions, there is less chance of receiving messages from strangers or seeing inappropriate content that could be upsetting or confusing.
This restriction will also help you to stop getting unexpected messages online from people you’ve never met.
2. MORE TIME FOR FUN AND HOBBIES
Being off social media can give you more time to explore your interests and discover what makes you happy. Instead of endless scrolling for hours, you might rediscover painting, building, reading, music, or exploring outside.
3. SPENDING MORE TIME WITH FRIENDS
Friendships can grow stronger when you’re laughing, talking and playing together in real life. You might play a board game, kick a footy around, or make up a fun new game together.
4. INCREASED PHYSICAL ACTIVITY
More time in the real world means more chances to move your body like; riding your bike, jumping on the trampoline, or racing your friends in the playground.
DON’T FEEL DISAPPOINTED – FEEL INVITED!
It’s completely normal to feel unsure or even upset about this change.
But this isn’t a ban. It’s an invitation.
An invitation to:
- enjoy your childhood fully
- explore the real world
- discover new talents
- connect with people face-to-face
- create amazing memories
Social media will still be there when you’re 16 and your brain, especially your frontal lobe, is more developed, and you are better prepared to make decisions, and deal with the problems or issues that may arise.
You only get to be a kid once and it doesn’t last long. So, this is your chance to grow and experience life in ways only children can.
If you still have questions or big feelings about this change and need some support:
Talk to a trusted adult – a parent, teacher, carer or family friend.
Ask questions – adults can help explain what comes next.
Visit the eSafety website for more information: esafety.gov.au
If you already have a social media account, speak with an adult about what happens next.
You are not alone in this. There are people who want to support you.
These new restrictions are about keeping you safe, helping you enjoy real life, and encouraging you to grow strong in your body and brain.
There are so many exciting adventures waiting for you offline.
See you next time,
Healthy Harold
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GLOSSARY
- restrictions: a limitation (a rule or law) on the use or enjoyment of something
- accounts: an arrangement in which a person uses the internet or email services of a particular company
- platforms: an application or website that serves as a base from which a service is provided
- protect: to guard or defend, to shield from exposure, injury or damage
- delaying: to slow something down or postpone
- strangers: a person that is unknown to you
- inappropriate: not appropriate, unsuitable
- unexpected: not expected, surprising
- hobbies: activities done regularly in one’s leisure time for fun
- disappointed: sad or displeased
- frontal lobe: the frontal lobe is the part of the brain located behind your forehead that works as the “control panel” for things like thinking, planning and making decisions
- arise: to begin to occur or exist
QUICK QUIZ
- What is the name of the laws coming into effect on December 10?
- What are some of the platforms being affected by the restriction?
- Why has the social media age restriction law been introduced?
- What are some of the benefits for young people under 16 years of age?
- What can you do if you have questions, need more information or support?