By: Bec Harris
As the December 10 social media changes draw closer, many Australian families are asking the same questions: Who will be affected? How strict will the rules be? And what does it all mean for our kids?
Nicole Jameson is a digital safety expert from Dark Horse Agency, she unpacks the facts. Here’s what you need to know, and how to prepare.
Under-16 Accounts Will Be Deactivated
The first major step of the new restrictions lands on 10th December, when social media platforms begin deleting or deactivating accounts belonging to users who have identified themselves as under 16.
According to Nicole, that’s:
- 150,000 young users on Facebook, and
- Around 350,000 under-16s on Instagram.
That’s a massive shift – and only the beginning.
But Kids Have Already Found Workarounds
While the goal is to protect children, teenagers have had 12 months’ notice, and many have used it creatively.
Because kids often don’t mind losing old photos or videos, many simply:
- Created new accounts with fake ages, or
- Adjusted their birth dates to look older.
Platforms will conduct a “second wave” scan later to detect accounts that changed dates historically, but for now, many young users may slip through unnoticed.
Age Verification Rules Are Still Murky
One of the biggest concerns is the vagueness of the legislation.
Originally, the government planned to manage age verification. Now, tech companies must take “reasonable steps”, a phrase that leaves plenty of grey area.
Nicole explains that verification will require more than a simple checkbox. New sign-ups will need some form of identification, but it doesn’t necessarily have to be government-issued.
However, very few IDs list a date of birth and are not official documents.
What Identification Will Kids Need?
This remains unclear, but possible IDs may include:
- Student IDs (many include date of birth, especially if linked to bus passes)
- Passports, for those who have them
- Learner’s permits, but only in some states and usually only from age 16
But Here’s The Big Concern:
Providing ID hands tech giants more personal data, including location, school details, and biometric data linked to photos. Nicole warns that such information allows extremely targeted advertising to teens once they re-join platforms at 16.
Are Adults Affected Too?
Yes – new adult accounts created after December 10 will also require age verification.
Nicole strongly encourages anyone with a small business or public profile to download their data now, just in case accounts are accidentally swept up in the deactivation process.
Existing accounts should remain untouched.
Different Platforms, Different Requirements
Because platforms are privately owned, each one is setting its own rules.
Most will require official identification – but some are taking it further. Nicole highlights one concerning case:
Snapchat may request:
- Identity documents
- Biometric facial data
- Bank account details
That last requirement raises major questions about safety, privacy, and necessity, especially for everyday users simply trying to access a social platform.
What About International Comparisons?
Australia isn’t the first country to introduce these measures.
The UK launched similar rules under the Online Safety Act, which also restricts underage access to adult websites. While under-age traffic dropped significantly, the use of free VPNs skyrocketed 1,000–1,800%, suggesting teens quickly found loopholes.
Nicole worries Australia may see the same, pushing young people “underground” into riskier online spaces.
So What Can Parents Do Now?
Despite the uncertainties, Nicole says there is good news.
1. Talk with your children.
Make space at the dinner table for regular, honest conversation about:
- What platforms they use
- Who they follow
- What they might encounter
- How to respond to unsafe situations
2. Stay informed.
Follow reputable sources like:
- eSafety Commissioner updates
- Tech-safety educators
- Experts who break down emerging trends and risks
3. Learn the platforms yourself.
Nicole often hears parents say, “I don’t care about TikTok” or “I think social media is stupid.” But kids don’t agree. Understanding their digital world helps you guide them confidently.
It’s Not All Bad News
Social media, used safely, still offers:
- Community
- Creativity
- Connection
- Opportunities for learning and support
As Nicole reminds us, there are always two sides to the coin.
With major changes coming on December 10, families will face new challenges, but also new opportunities to build trust, connection, and digital awareness.
Nicole will return to Table Talk in 2026 to share updates on how the rollout is tracking. Until then, proactive conversations and informed choices remain the best tools for keeping our kids safe online.
Article supplied with thanks to Sonshine.
Feature image: Canva
