Australia’s New Under 16 Social Media restrictions
How Australia’s New Under-16 Social Media Restrictions May Affect SCCE Exchange Students
Australia is preparing to introduce new rules limiting social media access for anyone under 16 years of age, and naturally many families are asking how this might impact their child’s upcoming exchange program.
For SCCE students aged 14 or 15, the change may influence how they stay in touch with friends and family while living in Australia. While is may be perceived as an inconvenience, it also presents an amazing opportunity to disconnect from the pressures of social media and really dive deep into your new Aussie lifestyle. Because the government has not yet released full implementation details, the information below reflects what we know so far from public announcements, media reports, and early guidance. We will update our community as more clarity becomes available.
What the new law is about
Starting December 10, 2025, major social media companies will be required to restrict access for users under 16. These platforms will be treated as “age-restricted social media services,” and must take steps to block or limit under-16 users accessing their accounts from within Australia.
A key point
The restriction is based on the location of the user, not the country where the account was originally created.
Which platforms are expected to be affected?
Below is an overview of the platforms most likely to be impacted for under-16 users in Australia.
Highly likely to be restricted:
• Instagram
• TikTok
• Snapchat
• Facebook
• X (Twitter)
• Reddit
• Discord (main social features)
• Twitch (chat and social functions)
Possibly restricted depending on how platforms implement age-verification:
• Pinterest
• BeReal
• WeChat Moments / social feed features
• Threads
• Tumblr
Services that should continue to work normally
These apps and platforms are generally considered communication or utility tools rather than “social media” under the legislation:
• WhatsApp
• Messenger (including Messenger Kids)
• FaceTime and iMessage
• Zoom / Google Meet
• Microsoft Teams and school-based apps
• Email
• In-game chat on platforms like Roblox, Fortnite, and Nintendo Online
• YouTube (but some social features may be limited depending on account type)
What this could mean for SCCE exchange students under 16
Students aged 14 or 15 may experience one or more of the following once they arrive in Australia:
• Their social media apps may stop working or reduce functionality.
• They may be asked to verify their age and be unable to complete the required steps.
• Creating new accounts under the age of 16 may not be possible.
• Some platforms may switch to limited or “safe mode” versions automatically.
• Accounts may log out or block access when Australian location data is detected.
• Students who are 16 or older are not expected to be affected by these restrictions.
Possible workarounds students may attempt
Many young people will naturally try to find ways to stay connected. Below is what families should know about what may or may not work.
Workarounds that may still function
These options do not breach Australian law, as compliance is the platform’s responsibility:
• Using YouTube on a parent’s or host family’s account (YouTube’s social feature including comments or DMs. These may still be limited for under-16s.)
• Using messaging apps such as WhatsApp, iMessage or Messenger Kids (these are not subject to the ban).
• Accessing content through a parent-managed Apple or Google account provided parental settings allow access.
• Browsing some platforms without logging in. A few services still allow public, non-logged-in viewing.
Workarounds that may not function anymore
• VPNs: Many platforms already detect VPN use, and age-verification systems may override it.
• Creating a new account with a false date of birth: Companies are increasingly using facial-age estimation or ID checks.
• Logging in from another country before travel: Platforms can re-verify a user’s age and location once they connect in Australia.
Workarounds we strongly discourage
• Using someone else’s ID
• Submitting fake identification
• Trying to bypass parental controls
These actions violate platform rules and create unnecessary risks for young travellers.
How SCCE students and families can prepare
Before departure
• Make sure photos, chats, and videos are backed up in case an app becomes inaccessible.
• Set up alternative communication tools such as WhatsApp, FaceTime, iMessage or email.
• Let students know ahead of time that they may temporarily lose access to certain platforms.
• Discuss how you plan to stay in touch during the exchange.
During the exchange
• Encourage students to spend less time on devices and more time connecting with their host family and school community.
• Remind them that this is temporary, and that support is available if they feel disconnected.
Will this affect visas or exchange eligibility?
No. This change has zero impact on visas, border processes, or eligibility to participate in an exchange program. It relates solely to how social media platforms must operate within Australia.
A chance for a more immersive exchange
Although the restrictions may feel inconvenient at first, they can actually create opportunities. Many past SCCE students have told us that stepping away from social media helped them be more present, more engaged, and better able to form strong relationships with their host families and new friends.
Simon Costain
This is an opportunity to enjoy the authentic, everyday experiences that make an exchange so special - to live in the moment, not just post about it.
