From 10 December 2025, the Australian Government will introduce new, world-first legislation that requires major social media platforms to take reasonable steps to prevent Australians under 16 from holding accounts on their services. These changes, outlined in the Online Safety Act 2025 and Online Safety (Age-Restricted Social Media Platforms) Rules 2025, have implications for young people across the country, including junior athletes participating in Triathlon or Multisport events and programs around the country, particularly those in our AusTriathlon State Pathways program.
The Australian Sports Commission (ASC) has issued guidance to support sports, athletes and families in navigating this transition. AusTriathlon is committed to helping junior athletes, parents, coaches and clubs understand the changes and what they mean for our community.
Which platforms are affected?
The nine platforms are captured under the Social Media Minimum Age (SMMA) obligation:
- TikTok
- YouTube
- Snapchat
- Threads
- Kick
- X (Twitter)
These platforms will be required to identify, restrict, and deactivate accounts used by individuals under 16. Messaging or communication apps such as WhatsApp and Messenger are not captured under the new legislation.
What this means for junior athletes in our sport?
The new rules apply to all U16 Australians, including junior triathletes in our state pathway and development programs, regardless of their competition level or commercial profile.
Potential impacts for young athletes
The ASC highlights that young athletes may feel these changes more keenly due to the role social media often plays in their daily lives and sporting experience. Possible impacts include:
- Reduced connection with friends, teammates, or family, particularly for athletes who travel or relocate for training.
- Loss of a familiar “pressure release” during demanding periods such as selection phases or major competitions.
- Disruption to program-related communication if it previously occurred on now-restricted platforms.
AusTriathlon is reviewing all communication channels used in pathway programs to ensure junior athletes remain fully informed and supported.
Impact on athletes with personal sponsorships
Some junior athletes, especially those progressing quickly through our talent pathways, may have personal sponsorships or commercial agreements that involve social media activity.
The ASC guidance makes clear that:
- There are no exemptions for commercial or professional use.
- U16 athletes cannot legally post on restricted platforms, regardless of sponsorship obligations.
- A parent, guardian, coach, agent, or third party cannot run or administer a restricted-platform account on behalf of an U16 athlete.
Where obligations cannot be fulfilled due to the legislation, several legal protections may apply, including statutory illegality or frustration. Athletes may also negotiate to fulfil obligations on platforms not subject to SMMA restrictions. Individual advice is recommended for affected athletes.
What Clubs and Coaches Need to Know
These changes also have practical implications for triathlon clubs, coaches and squad managers who communicate with junior athletes. Clubs should avoid using restricted platforms (e.g., Facebook groups, Instagram chats, TikTok updates) for essential information such as training schedules, venue changes or event logistics.
Communication must be delivered through accessible channels, such as email, SMS, WhatsApp or club management apps, so U16 athletes are not excluded or disadvantaged.
Coaches should continue to follow safe communication principles: using group channels where possible, keeping messages professional and sport-related, and including parents/guardians when appropriate. Clubs are encouraged to review and update their digital communication policies to reflect the new requirements.
AusTriathlon, led by National Integrity Manager Louise Taylor, will support clubs and state programs to ensure a smooth and compliant transition.
Are athletes at risk of penalties?
No. – U16 athletes will not face penalties for having existing accounts or attempting to create new ones. Responsibility for compliance sits entirely with the platforms. Platforms are expected to delete or deactivate accounts with “kindness, care and clear communication” and allow users to download their data beforehand.
The upside: Opportunities for healthier digital environments
While these changes may require adjustment, they also have potential benefits for young athletes, including:
- Reduced exposure to harmful or age-inappropriate content.
- Lower social pressure, comparison, and online performance anxiety.
- More time and focus for training, recovery, school and relationships offline.
- A more intentional introduction to social media as athletes mature.
Useful Links
