Social Media Changes in Australia: What It Means for You (and How to Cope!)
Hey there! You’ve probably heard the news — Australia is bringing in new rules about social media use for kids and teens.
If you’re under 16, you might not be able to have your own social media accounts (like Instagram, TikTok or Snapchat) anymore. That might sound frustrating or confusing, which is completely understandable! You’re definitely not alone — and this change isn’t about punishing you. It’s about keeping you safe and helping everyone (including adults!) think more carefully about how we use the internet.
Let’s break down what’s actually happening — and what you could do…
So… what’s changing?
From around December 2025, social-media platforms (like TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat and others) will need to stop under-16s from having accounts.
That means if you’re under 16, the app might ask for ID, block new sign-ups, or deactivate existing accounts.
Important: You won’t be in trouble — it’s not illegal for you. The rules are for the companies, not for kids.
The government’s goal is to protect young people from:
- Cyber-bullying and online drama,
- Scams or unsafe strangers,
- Endless scrolling that messes with sleep or mood,
- Seeing upsetting or fake content that can affect your confidence.
Why this rule exists (and why it’s not all bad!)
It might feel unfair, especially if social media is how you talk to your friends or share your hobbies. But here’s what psychologists know from years of research:
- Social media is designed to keep you hooked. That “just one more scroll” feeling? Not your fault — the apps are built to trigger it.
- Your brain is still developing. Around your age, your brain’s emotion and reward systems are super active, while impulse control is still growing. That means social media can sometimes hit your mood harder than it does for adults.
- You deserve time to build real-life confidence first. Before being thrown into the social-media world, it helps to practise things like handling comparison, online pressure, and privacy choices.
So yes — it’s annoying, but it’s also a chance to protect your headspace and give your brain a break from all that noise.
“But all my friends are still on there!”
Totally fair thought. Feeling left out is a hard part of this change.
Try this:
- Talk about it: Say to a friend, “Hey, it sucks that we can’t chat on Insta anymore — what else can we use to stay in touch?”
- Suggest alternatives: You can use messaging apps with parental permission (like WhatsApp or Messenger Kids), group chats, or even old-school FaceTime or texting. Check up on your friends and make sure they feel included.
- Plan real-life hangs: Catch up after school, go for walks, gaming sessions, movie nights, or even build something creative together.
The best friendships don’t depend on followers or likes — they depend on time, trust, and fun.
If you’re feeling stressed or sad about it
That’s totally okay. Losing access to something that’s been a big part of your life can bring on some uncomfortable emotions.
Here’s what can help:
- Talk to someone: Your parents, a counsellor, or a trusted adult, like a teacher or psychologist. Let them know if you’re feeling angry, anxious or embarrassed.
- Focus on your strengths: What do you enjoy doing offline — art, sport, gaming, helping others, cooking, music? Dive deeper into that.
- Remember your worth isn’t online. Likes and followers don’t define who you are. You’re already valuable, interesting and unique — even when you’re offline.
Fun ways to stay connected (without Insta or TikTok)
Here are some cool ideas to stay social and creative even if you’re not on those platforms:
- Remember- you can still text your friends, make group chats and share the stuff in your life
- Start a private “art or idea journal” — share it with friends in person.
- Play co-op games online (with people you know in real life).
- Make fun short videos just for your friends or family to watch together — no uploading needed!
- Learn photography or coding, or join a local creative club.
- Start a small blog about something you love (music, animals, fashion, cars, etc.) with adult help.
- Join a team sport, youth group, or volunteer project — connection happens everywhere, not just on screens.
What to do if you see something scary or uncomfortable online
Even with new laws, weird or upsetting things can still show up online.
Here’s what to remember:
- Don’t share or reply to people you don’t know in person. Block or report instead.
- Tell a trusted adult — even if you’re scared you’ll “get in trouble”. You won’t. Adults can help make it stop. It’s always better to tell early.
- If you ever feel unsafe, you can get free, private help from Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800 or chat online at kidshelpline.com.au.
Final thoughts
These new social-media rules might feel like a big change — and they are. But you have something powerful on your side: your ability to adapt, connect, and create in other ways.
This isn’t forever. As you grow, you’ll get more freedom online. For now, think of this as a pause button — a time to focus on real-life fun, friendships, and the parts of you that no screen can capture.
You’ve got this
And if it feels hard, remember — it’s okay to ask for help, talk it out, and find new ways to connect.
Written by Maryam Qureshi, Provisional Psychologist
ALL Images Courtesy of FREEP!K
If you’d like to find out more about One Central Health, give us a call today on (08) 9344 1318.