23 October 2025
The Australian Government has announced upcoming social media restrictions as part of its approach to improving online safety for young people, coming into effect on 10 December 2025. These changes will place age-based limits on access to social media platforms.
At St Peter’s College, we support this national initiative and will continue to restrict access to social media platforms across the school network for all students. Throughout Term 4, we will also be sharing age-appropriate information and resources with students from Years 5 to 11 in the lead up to the restrictions, helping them understand the implications of these changes and how to stay connected safely and meaningfully.
Support for Students
For our younger students, this will focus on:
· Understanding the reasons behind the restrictions
· Exploring ways to maintain friendships and connections without using social media
· Identifying other avenues for social connection and support
For older students, the emphasis will include:
· How to request and download data from existing accounts
· How to transition off social media platforms
· Accessing alternative sources of support and trusted information
Our oldest students, who may not be directly affected by the restrictions, will be encouraged to play a positive role in supporting younger students- helping to foster inclusive friendships and connections that do not depend on social media.
Free Webinars for Parents and Carers
To support families in navigating these changes, the eSafety Commissioner is offering free webinars for parents and carers to help provide a clear understanding of the new rules and their implications, suggestions on guiding their child through these changes and access to resources that can support safe and positive online engagement for children and young people. Webinars are being offered on the following dates (times adjusted for Daylight Savings):
· Friday 14 November (12:30pm)
· Wednesday 19 November (6:30pm)
· Thursday 20 November (12:00pm)
· Tuesday 2 December (6:30pm)
· Monday 8 December (3:00pm)
· Monday 15 December (12:30pm)
You can register for any of these sessions here. Alternatively, eSafety have set up a Social Media Age Restrictions Hub, which provides detailed information and answers to FAQs on the topic.
The new social media restrictions represent a positive step toward creating safer online environments for children and young people. However, it is important to note that the restrictions alone are not sufficient to prevent all exposure to potentially harmful content or interactions. There are also several platforms to which the restrictions may not apply, including Roblox and Discord. Ongoing parental involvement remains critical in supporting online safety and wellbeing.
Working in Partnership
As these changes come into effect, families will approach them in different ways, and we recognise that this will be a significant period of change for many young people. In our most recent Senior School Technology Review Survey, just over 80% of students reported that they currently have one or more social media accounts- highlighting just how substantial this adjustment will be for some. We encourage parents to have ongoing conversations at home about the upcoming restrictions and how to navigate them as a family. These conversations, paired with the support provided at school, will help our community navigate this period of transition with understanding, empathy and shared purpose.
More information on the results of the full Technology Review, including actions for 2026 and beyond, will be shared in a separate communication within the coming fortnight. This will include information on upcoming forum sessions – which will also encompass discussion around social media. These will be held in Week 6 and are open to all parents and guardians across the School.
Angela Norman
Head of Digital Innovation and Integration
