As Australia prepares to roll out its social media ban for under-16s in December, experts are urging parents to brace for a new kind of challenge—helping children stay connected without the apps they’ve grown up with.
Under the new law, platforms such as TikTok, Snapchat, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube and Reddit will be required to take “reasonable steps” to block users under 16 from creating accounts. The move is aimed at shielding young people from harmful content and online predators. But researchers at the University of South Australia say the real work will happen at home.
Associate Professor Lesley-Anne Ey, a child safety and wellbeing expert, says parents will need to manage the emotional fallout as much as the practical change. “Many children and teens use apps like Snapchat and TikTok to connect with their friends. They’ve grown up with this technology; it’s part of who they are, and they’re used to communicating through videos, emojis, photos and filters,” she says.
“When the ban kicks in, kids may feel like they’re facing a social penalty where they won’t be able to connect with their friends in the same way. The fear of losing touch with friends is real, so parents will need to invite questions and show understanding and empathy about what their kids will see as a loss.”
Assoc Prof Ey says it’s vital to offer constructive alternatives. “Brainstorm alternative ways to stay connected. If they liked TikTok dances, an app like Just Dance could suit; if they want to chat, use closed group chats or messaging apps; and if they enjoy gaming, find multiplayer games where they can connect safely. Supporting kids through this is about empathy and keeping the lines of communication open.”
She adds that education and reassurance will be essential. “Parents should talk with their children about online safety—why it’s important to protect personal information like your full name, address and passwords; who it’s okay to connect with; and how to behave kindly and respectfully.”
That conversation should include helping kids understand permanence online. “They should also teach kids to think before they post anything—photos, comments or information—because once something’s online, you can’t take it back,” she says.
“Young brains are especially vulnerable to social media because they crave peer feedback and attention. This makes them more likely to take risks or react quickly without thinking about the consequences. Encourage kids to ask, ‘Would I say this to someone’s face?’ or ‘Would I show this to my mum?’ before posting or commenting. If the answer is ‘no’, then it’s probably not appropriate.”
With online bullying and coercion still rising, Ey says the ban is a protective measure, not overreach. “The social media ban isn’t ‘safetyism’, or evidence of a ‘Nanny State’; it’s an essential move to protect kids from online predators and risks. Parents should educate themselves about the platforms and games their kids use so they can have informed conversations. Non-judgemental, ongoing dialogue is essential.”
She believes parents’ own habits matter too. “Avoid excess screen time yourself and set up screen-free times for the whole family, like dinner and bedtime. This makes boundaries predictable and shows your kids what a healthy balance looks like.”
Beyond the rules, Ey encourages families to rediscover offline connection. “Connect with your kids. Show them how you can have fun together—whether it’s board games, movie nights, or taking advantage of daylight savings for a bike ride after dinner. The convenience of screens and social media has caused havoc. Perhaps we all need to wind the clock back and remember what life was like before screens. It’s time we took control, for our sake, and for the safety and wellbeing of our kids.”
Her advice for parents preparing for the change is simple: stay informed, stay empathetic, and lead by example.
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