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Help us understand how social media and the new restrictions are impacting young people’s mental health, connection, concentration, and family life – both now and after December 10.
This FREE essential Information Session will feature a panel of a neuroscientist and a researcher, along with lived-experience advocates who will break down the upcoming changes to social media legislation, discuss why the reform is essential, particularly for those with eating disorders, how parents can support their child through the changes.
Whether you’re a parent, an eating disorder carer, a family member – This session is open to ALL.
About the Speakers
Dr Simon Wilksch
Clinical Psychologist & Senior Research Fellow – Flinders University
Dr Simon Wilksch is a clinical and research psychologist who is dedicated to reducing the burden of eating disorders. He is Clinic Director at Advanced Psychology Services, an eating disorder treatment service in Adelaide. His research has focussed on eating disorder risk reduction. Together with Professor Tracey Wade he has developed and systematically evaluated Media Smart Schools and Media Smart Targeted, leading prevention and early intervention programs with a strong evidence base.
Simon is committed to translating research and clinical knowledge into real-world action to benefit as many people as possible. In 2024 he played a significant role in the campaign to raise social media minimum age to 16 years, including speaking with many members of parliament, media commentary, making various submissions and collaborating with fellow clinicians, researchers and parents who have had lived experience of how harmful social media can be.
Dr Mark Williams
Neuroscientist & Honorary Professor – Macquarie University
Dr Mark A. Williams is a leading expert in cognitive neuroscience and the author of “The Connected Species”. With more than 25 years under his belt researching how we learn and connect, Dr Williams has taught everyone from kindy kids to adults about the wonders of the brain. He has received numerous awards for his teaching and research, published over 70 scientific articles, and worked at prestigious institutions such as MIT in the US, as well as several universities across Australia.
These days, Dr Williams helps schools and organisations use neuroscience to boost learning, spark innovation, and support mental health. You might have seen his work featured in media like The New York Times, Forbes, The Economist, and New Scientist. Keep an eye out for his upcoming book, “Screen Smart Children”, co-written with Gavin McCormach and published by Simon & Schuster, a handy guide for parents keen to navigate the world of social media bans and evolving tech. You can learn more about Dr Williams here.
Charley Breusch
Lived experience recovery
advocate
Charley Breusch
Lived experience recovery advocate
Charley was diagnosed with Anorexia Nervosa in 2016 when she was 15 years old. While she does not believe social media contributed to the development of her eating disorder, she has spoken publicly about how it hampered her recovery – and that was before the rise of TikTok and SnapChat.
Now well recovered and about to embark on a career as a secondary school teacher, Charley is passionate about raising awareness of the harmful impact of social media on young people’s minds and bodies.
Kayla Carusi
Lived experience recovery
advocate
Kayla Carusi
Lived experience recovery advocate
Diagnosed with Anorexia Nervosa in 2019, Kayla reflects on how social media amplified her struggles and later complicated her journey toward recovery. In November 2025, she will graduate with a Diploma in Beauty Therapy and now works in the industry to help others feel confident in their own skin.
In 2026, Kayla will begin studying Dermal Therapy, continuing her passion for health and self-empowerment. Kayla hopes to use her story to raise awareness of social media’s harms and inspire others to find self-worth beyond the screen.
Resources and Organisations
eSafety Commisionner Social Media Age Restriction Hub
Find more information about the changes, FAQs on how it will work, and advice for families, young people and educators.
safeonsocial.com’s FREE social Media Minimum Age – School Video Pack
Designed for schools, the SMMA Classroom Pack includes a 30-minute, all ages-appropriate recorded session led by digital safety expert Kirra Pendergast ready to press play in any classroom, any time.
Information for families: FAQs, information, conversation tips, and other linksInformation for young people: FAQs, practical advice, and other links
Resources and tips on starting conversation, supporting your child’s offline friendships and connections, and how to stay connected with your child.
Key information about the changes for parents before December 10.
Evidence-based 8-lesson media literacy program for students in late primary school or early high school, intended for purchase by schools. The program can help preparing 16 year-olds for social media use.
