Blocked: the Social Media Ban, Multicultural Young People and Settlement
In December 2025, Australia will become the first country to enforce a social media ban for under-16s. While intended to protect young people from online harms, this landmark policy raises critical questions about rights, inclusion, and digital safety, especially for multicultural and newly arrived young people who rely on social media for connection, identity, and settlement.
Our latest research, Blocked: The Social Media Ban, Multicultural Young People and Settlement, explores the potential impacts of the ban through consultations with young people, families, and frontline workers. It highlights why a blanket ban alone won’t solve digital safety concerns and offers evidence-based recommendations for policymakers, services, and communities.
Read the full report to learn:
- How the ban could affect belonging, mental health, and access to vital information.
- Why multicultural young people want to be part of the solution.
- Practical steps to ensure safe, inclusive digital participation.