The Australian Government has announced plans to implement new laws by the end of 2025 to restrict access to social media for children under the age of 16. This bold move aims to address growing concerns about the negative impact of social media on young people’s mental health, wellbeing, and development.

Why the Change?

In recent years, parents, educators, and mental health experts have raised alarms about the harmful effects of excessive social media use on children and teenagers. The proposed ban is a response to mounting evidence that highlights how social media can adversely affect younger users.

Key Concerns About Social Media:

1. Mental Health Impact: Studies show that extended time on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat is linked to increased rates of anxiety, depression, and feelings of inadequacy among young people. Constant exposure to curated images of others' lives can foster unhealthy comparisons and erode self-esteem.
2. Cyberbullying: Online platforms often amplify bullying behavior, with many teenagers experiencing harassment and abuse that extends beyond the schoolyard. The anonymity of social media can make these interactions especially harmful.
3. Addiction and Distraction: Social media is designed to be engaging, and for many teenagers, it becomes an addictive habit that disrupts sleep, study routines, and in-person relationships.
4. Exposure to Inappropriate Content: Despite age restrictions, younger teens are frequently exposed to harmful material, including explicit content, violent imagery, and misinformation, which can impact their emotional and intellectual development.
5. Data Privacy Concerns: Many social media platforms collect vast amounts of personal data from users, often without their full understanding. For minors, this poses significant risks to their privacy and safety.

How Will the Law Work?

The details of the legislation are still being finalised, but key features are likely to include:

• Mandatory Age Verification: Social media companies will be required to implement robust systems to verify users' ages, such as parental consent protocols or ID checks.
• Stronger Parental Controls: Parents may gain more tools to monitor and restrict their children's online activity.
• Significant Penalties for Platforms: Companies that fail to comply with the law may face hefty fines or legal action.

Supporting Families and Schools

For Catholic schools like ours, these changes present both challenges and opportunities. While social media can offer benefits when used responsibly, the proposed laws align with our mission to nurture students’ holistic wellbeing.

Our school is committed to:

• Promoting healthy online habits through digital literacy programs.
• Encouraging open conversations between students, parents, and teachers about the dangers of excessive screen time.
• Offering pastoral care and counselling to students who may struggle with the transition or face social pressures related to the ban.

What Can Families Do Now?

As the legislation takes shape, families can take proactive steps to prepare for a healthier relationship with technology:

• Set Boundaries: Encourage designated screen-free times, such as during meals or before bedtime (at least 1 hour before sleep should be screen-free).
• Model Responsible Use: Show children how to balance online engagement with offline activities.
• Foster Open Communication: Talk regularly with your child about their online experiences and the importance of protecting their mental health.

A Shared Responsibility

As a Catholic community, we are called to work together to protect the dignity and wellbeing of every child. The proposed social media ban is a step toward safeguarding young people from the pressures and pitfalls of an increasingly digital world. With guidance from families, schools, and the wider community, we can help our students thrive in faith and in life.

We will continue to keep you updated as these changes unfold throughout 2025.