Has Australia’s social media ban for kids reduced family conflict, or just driven it underground?
Australia’s social media minimum age law came into effect on 10 December 2025, when platforms began enforcing restrictions on under-16s. This legislation makes Australia the first country in the world to implement a nationwide minimum age law for social media. In the few months since, effects can already be discussed…..
- Everyone else is on it: How the ban is changing family arguments
- Grounded by the Government? Why some kids feel relieved, and others feel isolated
- The Great Social Media Switch-Off: Relief, resistance and rule-breaking
- Parents finally have authority — but tech-savvy teens are finding workarounds
Interrelate has worked with Australian families for a century. Over that time, the shape of relationships has shifted dramatically, from post-war households to dual-income families, blended families, same-sex partnerships, long-distance love and now digital-age intimacy. Few shifts, however, have happened as quickly, or as contentiously, as children’s relationship with social media. As Australia implements new restrictions designed to limit children’s access to social media platforms, the policy has sparked both relief and resistance within families.
TRUSTED EXPERT COMMENTARY:
Interrelate Practice Specialist – Child and Youth, Alicia McAleer, says the legislation has acted as a cultural circuit-breaker.
At a global level, the Australian social media ban has served as a catalyst for meaningful change in the way societies respond to children’s and young people’s engagement with digital platforms.
At a family level, experiences since its introduction have been varied.
For some parents, the legislative ban has provided clarity and authority, empowering them to set firmer boundaries around social media use therefore reducing parent/ child conflict. Many parents previously felt caught between their concerns and their children’s insistence that “everyone is using it.” The policy has offered reassurance and a stronger framework to support parental decision-making.
However, unintended consequences have also emerged.
Parents of children living with disabilities, culturally and linguistically diverse parents, as well as those in rural and remote parts of Australia, have reported that social media previously provided an important and accessible avenue for connection. For these families, the loss of these platforms has created a tangible gap in their children’s social engagement and sense of belonging, prompting significant concern.
For some young people, especially those already feeling marginalised, online spaces offered belonging. Removing that without providing alternative connection pathways can create a gap. This highlights a key tension in digital policy: protection versus participation.
Among children and young people themselves, reactions have been mixed. Some report genuine relief, freedom from constant comparison, social pressure and scrutiny. Others describe little change at all.
A generation raised alongside social media has an extraordinary level of digital fluency. In many cases, they are far more technologically adept than the adults trying to enforce the rules and there are reports of children bypassing restrictions, creating alternative accounts, or accessing platforms through peers. In some instances, parents themselves have chosen to facilitate continued access, reflecting the complexity of enforcement within private homes.
This underscores a broader truth: legislation alone cannot shape behaviour.
What Comes Next?
Our social media restrictions represent an important step in challenging the normalisation of early and unrestricted online engagement. However, policy change is only one piece of the puzzle. What this moment really calls for is ongoing dialogue. We need to continue listening to children, young people and families about how these changes are landing in real life. It’s about education, modelling healthy behaviour, strengthening offline relationships and building emotional resilience.
Technology is part of young people’s lives. The goal is not elimination, it’s balance.
As research and evaluation continue, the long-term impact of Australia’s approach will become clearer.
For now, one thing is certain: the conversation about children and social media is no longer confined to kitchen tables and individual households, it’s a national priority.
INTERRELATE Counselling, Support, Mental Health & Education Services
Interrelate is a not-for-profit provider of relationship services, supporting healthy human connection across all stages of life. For 100 years, Interrelate has worked alongside individuals, families and communities to strengthen relationships, build resilience, and navigate life’s challenges with care and confidence. Each year, Interrelate reaches more than 169,000 people across over 30 locations and 450 schools in NSW, Victoria and Queensland, as well as nationally online. Their services span mental health, parenting and separation support, counselling, relationship and sexuality education in schools, and targeted community programs for people experiencing vulnerability. Grounded in research, evaluation and evidence-based practice, Interrelate is committed to addressing complex social issues in ways that are practical, inclusive and effective.
Interrelate marks 100 years of being a trusted leader in relationship education and support services in Australia in 2026. The organisation has grown and evolved to meet the changing needs of families and communities across Australia.
About us:
INTERRELATE Counselling, Support, Mental Health & Education Services
Interrelate is a not-for-profit provider of relationship services, supporting healthy human connection across all stages of life. For 100 years, Interrelate has worked alongside individuals, families and communities to strengthen relationships, build resilience, and navigate life’s challenges with care and confidence. Each year, Interrelate reaches more than 169,000 people across over 30 locations and 450 schools in NSW, Victoria and Queensland, as well as nationally online. Their services span mental health, parenting and separation support, counselling, relationship and sexuality education in schools, and targeted community programs for people experiencing vulnerability. Grounded in research, evaluation and evidence-based practice, Interrelate is committed to addressing complex social issues in ways that are practical, inclusive and effective.
Contact details:
Kath Rose on 0416 291 493 or email [email protected]
