When Are Young People Ready for Social Media Accounts?

There’s no “perfect” age for social media. 

But right now, some social media platforms don’t allow Australians under 16 to create or keep an account. That can be frustrating for kids who feel ready.

The delay gives you extra time to talk about online safety and wellbeing with your child, to help them prepare for the risks and pressures of social media when they turn 16.

Find out what apps and social media accounts are included in the delay.

Whilst the age restrictions are a positive step, they don’t guarantee safety. Under-16s can still access content without an account, for example, most videos on YouTube, through friends, shared videos or public posts.

That's why starting the conversation early, and revisiting it as they get older, really matters.

When your kid shows an interest in social media, involving them in the conversation can help build trust and keep communication open.

You might talk about:

• What they like about social media
• What worries them (or worries you)
• The positives and the drawbacks.

You don't need to cover everything at once. Ongoing conversations are more helpful than one big talk.

Does your kid know how to deal with negative online experiences?

If you think they would be very upset by a negative experience online, you might have to have an open and honest conversation with them about which platforms and apps are right for them.

Do they understand the importance of protecting their personal information?

Explain why privacy is important can be difficult. Start by reminding them what personal information is and then let them know that if they share it online, it could mean others use it in ways they might not have thought about.

Do they understand online privacy and their privacy settings on social media platforms?

• Show them how you can adjust the privacy settings for each of the platforms and apps they use.
• Talk about the settings you've selected for your accounts and why you chose them.
• Read more tips and guidance on eSafety Commissioner

Teach them how to delete abusive comments, and report and block people on each social media platform they are on.

Also discuss how to report abuse to the eSafety Commissioner. In most cases, they can help remove content and stop the abuse.

Your child will be safer online if they understand the risks. 

As well as your own protective strategies, such as using parental controls, you can empower your child to protect themself by having age-appropriate conversations about the risks they might face. 

For example, how well do they understand that someone they meet online might not be who they seem? Do they know what sort of information might be safer to share, and what is riskier?

It is important that they understand the behaviours that are the highest risk, such as sharing nude or sexually suggestive images or videos, meeting online friends in person, and behaviour that may be considered cyberbullying.

For help and advice you can download our Beacon Cyber Safety App.

If you are concerned about your child's safety online or need advice - you don't have to go through this alone.

You can speak to one of our qualified counsellors through our Bullying Support Line.

Or download our free Beacon Cyber Safety App for up-to-date expert advice on keeping your kids safe online.