Social Media Changes – Why Parents Should Act Now
From December 10, 2025, a major shift in Australia’s digital landscape will take place. Under a new law, children under 16 will no longer be allowed to open or maintain social media accounts on major platforms like Tik Tok, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, etc.

While the responsibility for enforcement lies with the tech companies, parents will play a vital role in helping their children adapt to this change and navigate a world less dominated by social media.

Why this law is being introduced: According to the eSafety Commission, the law targets the way social media platforms are designed as they are built with features that encourage compulsive use, such as constant notifications, algorithm-driven content, and engagement loops. These have been shown to negatively impact children’s mental health, sleep quality, concentration and self-esteem.

This move is being framed as a way to "give kids back their childhood" and offer parents a stronger position to enforce boundaries. The goal is to reduce screen time and online pressure during a crucial stage of development, giving children the space to grow, form identity, and build resilience. The hope is that when they are old enough, they can engage with social media in a healthier, more informed way.

What parents need to do now: Psychologists and digital safety experts warn that simply announcing the new rule without context or support may lead to resistance and frustration, especially for children who are already using social platforms daily.

Instead, experts recommend that parents, engage with the “why”, helping children understand the reasons behind the change. Parents may like to offer alternatives by encouraging offline social time, hobbies, or safer digital activities. Keep communication open by listening to their concerns and validate their feelings. If possible, model balanced behaviour and show your own healthy digital habits.

One simple step to take this week: Set aside 15 minutes for a family chat and explain the new law in your own words. Then invite your child’s questions together and decide on one change you can make at home around social media or device use before December.

Starting the conversation now means your child has time to process, adjust and develop new habits hopefully making the transition smoother and less stressful for everyone.

A Message of Thanks from Liz Schellekens – Our Sacramental Coordinator
We would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all the families who joined us for our first Prayers in Pyjamas event last Wednesday evening. It was a wonderful opportunity to come together as a school community for a gentle evening of reflection, singing, craft, and connection. 

Liz Schellekens, (our Sacramental Coordinator), wanted to particularly acknowledge and thank those families who came along, whether for faith reasons, curiosity, or simply to be part of something joyful and community-based. Liz would also like to share with all families that these events are open and invitational to everyone, not just to Catholic families. There is never any pressure to pray, participate, or say anything that you're not comfortable with.

Liz’s message is simple, “Come as you are, feel welcome, and journey with us.” She shared that one of the goals of these evenings is to support families in building comfort with Catholic traditions, especially around Masses or liturgies, whether held at school or in the church. “As members of our school and parish community, we want families to feel confident and included. These evenings are a way of building that understanding and making space for shared dialogue in faith.”

We look forward to welcoming more families at future events, whether it’s your first time, you’re of a different faith background, or you’re simply curious. Everyone has a place. I would also like to thank Fr Brendan Hogan, Dee Jackson, Ann Gleeson, Laura Carter and Belinda Thompson for supporting on the night along with our school staff.

Planning for 2026 – Student Enrolments

As we begin planning for the 2026 school year, we kindly ask that any families who know their child/ren will not be returning to our school next year (for any reason) please notify the office as soon as possible.

This information helps us manage class placements and enables us to offer places to families currently on our waiting lists.

We understand that circumstances can change, and we greatly appreciate you keeping us informed to support a smooth transition for all students and families.

Second Hand Uniform
For any families that are wishing to donate any second uniform to the school, these can be dropped off at the front office. We are requesting that clothing be washed and sorted into sizes to help our sorting process at school. We will aim to have some cupboards stocked for 2026 to allow families to purchase some cheaper items once building works have concluded.