Young Australians back under-16 social media curbs

Year13 has published research showing that 47% of young Australians support social media restrictions for under-16s. The survey also found many fear losing access to information and connection online.

The national survey of 1,077 Australians aged 12 to 24 points to a divide between support for tighter online rules and concern about what reduced social media use could mean for learning, news and social contact.

Support for the restrictions was higher than opposition, with 31% of respondents against the policy. More than 72% said stronger online protections were important, while 59% said they spend too much time on social media.

Many respondents also believed limits on access could benefit children under 16. Better sleep was cited by 66%, improved online safety by 62%, higher self-esteem by 61%, and better mental health and improved focus at school by 55% each.

At the same time, the findings suggest social platforms remain a major source of information and day-to-day support for younger people. Some 63% said they were concerned about losing access to information under the restrictions, and 81% said they use online platforms to learn new information or skills at least once a week.

The topics they most want to learn about online are financial literacy, selected by 61% of respondents, followed by career planning at 53%, cooking and nutrition at 48%, travel planning and safety at 46%, and health and wellbeing at 45%.

Social impact

The survey also found widespread concern about the effect on relationships and social contact. Around 71% said staying in touch with friends would become harder, while 67% said their sense of connection would decline.

This highlights the central role social platforms continue to play in how younger Australians communicate, gather information and organise daily life. The results suggest that while many accept the case for restrictions, they are less certain about what will replace those services if access narrows.

Will Stubley, co-founder and co-CEO of Year13, said the findings show young people are weighing the expected benefits against the possible drawbacks.

"Young Australians support the intent behind these changes and the benefits they believe it will bring to their wellbeing, but they're also thinking about what they might lose," Stubley said.

"Social media is where many young people go for news, learning, advice and connection. It is a big part of how they understand the world and stay in touch."

Policy questions

The data raises broader questions for policymakers, educators and youth services about where younger people will go for information and advice if social media becomes less available. The findings suggest any reduction in access may need to be matched with other channels for trusted information and support.

The issue is not limited to entertainment or screen time. The survey suggests young people use online platforms for practical matters tied to everyday decision-making, including money, health, career choices and life skills.

The research was carried out in February using the Student Edge Youth Insight panel to gather responses from participants across age, gender and location in Australia.

"If that access is reduced without clear alternatives, we risk creating a real vacuum in how young people find information and advice. That's why it's critical we strengthen access to trusted platforms, education tools and support services young people can turn to instead," Stubley said.