Grappling with the incoming social media restrictions? Help is at hand to understand the changes and ensure young people remain connected even when they lose access to social media platforms.

From 10 December, Australia’s world-first social media restrictions take effect and many social media platforms won’t be allowed to let people under 16 create or keep an account.

It’s part of a new law designed to keep people under 16 safer online by reducing their access to potentially harmful content.

The restrictions will impact many popular social media platforms including Tik Tok, Instagram, Snapchat, YouTube, X, Facebook and WhatsApp.

The eSafety Commissioner website is the best place to learn more about the changes.

In a Northern Beaches survey earlier this year, school students identified social media as their number one concern due to bullying and harmful content. They also expressed concerns about what life would be like without access.

More than half of young people surveyed said they were worried about being isolated once they no longer had access to their usual platforms and networks.

If you or a young person you know is worried about the changes, there are local services available to help people under 16 remain connected and informed.

Helpful services and resources

• headspace Brookvale
• Beaches Youth Hub
• Kids Helpline
• Local what’s on page for young people
• Sign up for KALOF newsletter for the latest news and events for young people