Supporting Families Through Upcoming Social Media Law Changes

In recent months, the Australian Government has proposed new social media restrictions for young people, designed to help protect children and teenagers from the risks associated with online use. These potential laws aim to set a minimum age for social media access and require age verification for users, as part of a broader national conversation about digital wellbeing and child safety online.

At San Clemente Catholic College, we recognise that technology plays a huge role in our students’ lives: socially, emotionally, and educationally. While online platforms can offer valuable opportunities for connection and creativity, research continues to highlight concerns around mental health, cyberbullying, exposure to inappropriate content, and the addictive nature of social media use among young people.

The government’s proposed changes aim to support families by reducing early exposure and giving parents greater confidence in how their children engage online. Still, such changes can raise practical and emotional questions at home, especially for families with teenagers who already have a strong digital presence.

How Families Can Prepare

• Start the conversation early. Talk with your child about the upcoming changes and what they might mean for their online habits. Emphasise that these laws are designed to protect, not punish.
• Set clear boundaries together. Revisit your family’s digital agreements, such as device-free times or limits on screen use, so that expectations are consistent and realistic.
• Encourage positive online behaviour. Focus on what children can do safely online: connecting with friends in healthy ways, learning new skills, and using technology creatively.
• Model balance. Children often take their cues from us. Showing mindful and moderate technology use as adults helps reinforce that balance and boundaries apply to everyone.
• Stay informed. As details of the legislation are finalised, reliable updates will be available from the eSafety Commissioner and Australian Government Department of Communications websites.

Free Parent and Carer Webinar: LOGGED OUT

Families are encouraged to take part in LOGGED OUT, a free 60-minute webinar for parents, carers, and educators on Thursday 6 November at 7:30 pm. This session focuses on the psychological side of managing social media changes, rather than the technical aspects.

The webinar will explore:

• Talking about the ban openly and calmly
• Managing strong emotions and feelings of social disconnection
• Helping young people make values-based choices online
• Backing up digital memories and supporting identity shifts
• Building a healthy online–offline balance this summer

The session includes a live Q&A and a bonus PDF playbook of extra resources and activities.

Register here: Webinar Registration - Zoom

Our shared goal is to create a culture where young people feel empowered to use technology wisely and where families are supported in guiding them through these changes. Together, we can help our children navigate this digital world with safety, balance, and confidence.

Nathan Beckett Assistant Principal (Wellbeing)