In Australia the Online Safety Amendment (Social Media Minimum Age) Bill 2024 amends the Online Safety Act 2021 and requires ‘age-restricted social media platforms’ to take reasonable steps to prevent Australians under 16 years from having accounts on their platforms.

Most social media platforms (e.g. TikTok, Snapchat, Instagram) state their age rating as 13years or older. This is because U.S. data laws dictate that below this age, children must have parent’s or guardian’s permission to sign up. It has less to do with content. Nonetheless, a report from the e-Safety Commissioner found younger children were accessing these platforms with parental oversight or by creating accounts with modified ages. The most commonly used platforms include:

1. TikTok

A favourite among children and teens for its short video content, TikTok engages users with trends, challenges, and creative tools. In Australia, the platform accounts for 41.5% penetration of internet users, making it a key app for this age group.

2. YouTube

Though technically not categorized as a social media platform, YouTube is a primary destination for kids under 15 to watch educational and entertaining videos, particularly through YouTube Kids.

3. Instagram:

Known for photo and video sharing, Instagram is popular among older preteens and teens who enjoy following trends and influencers.

4. Snapchat

Often used for its private messaging and Stories feature, Snapchat remains a hit with teens due to its interactive and ephemeral nature.

5. Roblox and Discord

While Roblox is primarily a gaming platform, its chat and community features make it a social space for many children. Discord serves as a hub for communities around gaming and other interests for tech-savvy older kids.

Popular Podcasts for Children Under 15 in Australia

Podcasts specifically targeted at children or preteens are growing in popularity. Examples include:

"Short & Curly": An Australian ethics podcast exploring thought-provoking questions for children.

"Brains On!": A science-based podcast designed for curious minds.

"Wow in the World": Focused on science and innovation, appealing to kids' sense of wonder.

"Story Time": Sharing bedtime stories suitable for younger listeners.

Parents often use these resources to supplement learning and entertainment in a safe, controlled format.

These platforms and podcasts emphasize creativity, interaction, and entertainment while appealing to the developmental needs of children and teenagers.