Australia’s social media age limit: A “seatbelt” moment or a missed opportunity?

Rates of self-harm and suicide-related thoughts and behaviors are high among young people and there are growing concerns about the potential role of social media on this, and on youth mental health more broadly. These concerns have led several countries to strengthen their legislative approaches to online safety, in particular as they relate to young people. In Australia, a mandatory minimum age of 16 for young people accessing some social media platforms will come into effect in December 2025 (Online Safety Amendment [Social Media Minimum Age] Bill; Parliament of Australia, 2024). However, what is being referred to as the “social media ban” will almost certainly also have unintended harmful consequences for some young people.