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Update Last updated 5 November 2025 (AWST)

Latest platform status for under-16 age restrictions

From 10 December 2025, the services below are considered age-restricted social media platforms in Australia:

  • 📱 Facebook
  • 📱 Instagram
  • 📱 Kick
  • 📱 Reddit
  • 📱 Snapchat
  • 📱 Threads
  • 📱 TikTok
  • 📱 X (Twitter)
  • 📱 YouTube

At this stage, the following do not meet the definition of an age-restricted social media platform:

  • 🔹 YouTube Kids
  • 🔹 Google Classroom
  • 🔹 WhatsApp
  • 🔹 Messenger
  • 🔹 Discord
  • 🔹 GitHub
  • 🔹 LEGO Play
  • 🔹 Roblox
  • 🔹 Steam and Steam Chat

Source & further updates: eSafety: Which platforms are age-restricted?

What’s changing for under-16s online?

From 10 December 2025, new age restrictions will limit under-16s from creating or keeping accounts on most social media platforms. This guide helps parents and carers prepare.

Read the Official Parent Guide Under 16 Get Ready Guide

Why the change?

The new rules aim to reduce exposure to harmful content, protect privacy, and encourage healthy screen habits. They give children time to build digital literacy and resilience.

Which platforms are affected?

Restrictions apply to services where social interaction is central — Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, X (Twitter), YouTube and similar. Under-16s can still view public content without an account.

What about other apps and games?

Apps with social features such may also be affected. Check the latest advice from the eSafety Commissioner and platform providers.

What will change

  • Under-16s can’t create new accounts on covered platforms.
  • Existing accounts may be paused, closed or restricted.
  • Platforms must verify age and strengthen safety controls.

What parents and carers can do now

  • Review which apps your child uses.
  • Discuss what might change and when.
  • Back up photos and contacts to keep.
  • Audit old accounts and cancel unused subscriptions.

Support and resources

Kids Helpline

For 5- to 25-year-olds. Confidential phone counselling and online chat available 24/7.

Find out more

ReachOut

For 16- to 25-year-olds. PeerChat is available Monday to Thursday 3-8pm and Friday 11:30am-4:30pm.

Find out more

Headspace

For 12- to 25-year-olds. Confidential phone counselling, email and webchat available 3pm to 10pm every day.

Find out more

Beyond Blue

For all ages. Phone counselling and online chat available 24/7.

Find out more

13YARN

For all ages. Crisis support line for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Available 24/7.

Find out more

QLife

For all ages. QLife provides anonymous and free LGBTIQ+ peer support and referral. Available 3pm to midnight every day.

Find out more

Last updated: 28 October 2025. For the latest guidance, check eSafety and platform help centres.

You have the right to feel safe and be safe at all times.

250528 25791

These websites have helpful information about bullying and cybersafety. 

Office of the eSafety Commissioner

The eSafety Commissioner's website brings together useful information to help you have safe, enjoyable experiences online. It has activities and advice specifically designed for children and young people on topics such as cyberbullying, online gaming, privacy, protecting your identity, consent and sharing photos.

Bullying No Way!

Bullying can happen anywhere - at school, home, work, in online social spaces, via text messaging or email. The Bullying No Way! website has information for kids and teens on what to do if you are being bullied, have been called a bully or see someone else being bullied. It also tells you where to get help and who to talk to.