Social Media in 2026: What Onkaparinga businesses need to know

Published on 11 February 2026

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Social media is changing fast — and so are the ways people find and engage with local businesses. In 2026, your social posts don’t just appear in newsfeeds anymore — they can now show up in Google search results, helping new customers discover your business even if they’ve never followed you.

Here’s a simple guide to help Onkaparinga business owners understand what’s changed, what matters most, and how to make your social content work harder this year.

1. Your social media posts now show up on Google

Since mid-2025, social posts are being surfaced in Google Search including photos, reels, videos and captions. That means a local customer searching for “best pizza near me” or “family-friendly café in McLaren Vale” could see your social content — not just your website.

What to do:

  • Use natural, clear captions that describe what your post is about (avoid jargon).
  • Include your business name, location, and relevant keywords (e.g. “family-friendly café in Port Noarlunga”).
  • Keep your captions conversational, like what someone might type into a search bar.

Please note stories and private group posts are not indexed.

2. GEO is the new SEO

For local businesses, geographically relevant content is now more important than hashtags or follower counts. Instagram and Facebook algorithms are prioritising local keywords — helping nearby audiences find you.

Try this:

  • Write captions like “Live music at our Willunga wine bar this Friday night” instead of “Great vibes tonight!”.
  • Add location tags to your posts and stories.
  • Encourage locals to tag your location when they share or check in.
  • Mention nearby landmarks or events to reinforce local relevance without sounding forced.

3. Keep hashtags simple

Forget the long hashtag lists. Instagram now recommends no more than three highly relevant hashtags per post. Too many broad or unrelated hashtags can dilute your message confusing the algorithm and reduce your reach.

Example:
✅ #McLarenValeWinery #LiveMusicFriday #SouthAustraliaEvents
❌ #winery #wine #music #foodie #fun #happyhour #party

4. What the algorithms love in 2026

Social platforms (and Google) are powered by AI-driven discovery. The focus is now on relevance and quality, not just likes or follows.

Here’s what helps your posts perform:

  • Shares and saves now matter more than likes — they show your content has real value.
  • Comments and DMs count too — respond and engage!
  • Avoid “salesy” or pushy language. Instead of shouting “BOOK NOW!!!” try “We’d love to welcome you this weekend.”

5. Reels and short-form video still lead for discovery
In 2026, reels and short-form videos are still the most effective formats for reaching new audiences on both Facebook and Instagram.

They’re often shown to non-followers, helping locals discover your business organically through AI-driven recommendations and “near me” searches.

Try creating short, authentic clips that:
• Showcase your products, services, or people.
• Capture behind-the-scenes moments or customer experiences.
• Run between 10–30 seconds — enough to grab attention but short enough to finish.

Simple, real, and consistent content performs far better than polished but impersonal videos.

6. Follow the 12–1 rule

To stay visible organically (without paid ads), aim for a balance: 12 community or value posts for every 1 promotional post.

Examples of community or value posts:

  • Behind-the-scenes stories
  • Staff highlights
  • Educational content: tips, recipes, ‘did you know?’ or how-tos
  • Tips, recipes, or how-tos
  • Community events or collaborations
  • Customer spotlights or testimonials
  • Shout-outs to nearby businesses, suppliers, or community groups
  • Trends you’re noticing, seasonal advice, recommendations

7. Treat your Google Business Profile like a social channel

Your Google Business Profile (GBP) has become one of your most powerful online tools. It now acts like a social channel in its own right — feeding data directly into Google’s AI search results and local “AI Overviews.”

Make it work for you:

  • Update your profile at least once a month.
  • Add posts, photos, and event updates regularly.
  • Respond to reviews — positive or negative — to show you’re active and engaged.
  • Use your GBP to share the same content you post on Facebook or Instagram.

This helps your business appear when people search things like “cafés open now near Seaford” or “plumbers available this weekend in Onkaparinga.”

8. Facebook’s 2026 business page updates

Facebook has rolled out a major update to business pages, creating a cleaner, more intuitive and action-focused layout that closely mirrors personal profiles.

This update is part of Meta’s long-term shift toward a mobile-first, AI-driven experience that prioritises engagement and usability.

Tips to make the most of it:

  • View your page on both desktop and mobile to ensure it looks how you want it to.
  • Check what’s pinned under your About intro — make sure it reflects your key message.
  • Add multiple website or booking links to your profile (a new feature).
  • Highlight multiple business specialties — and use relevant keywords for SEO.
  • Review your long-form business description under Privacy and Legal Information — refresh the copy to include local and industry-specific search terms.

9. Meta’s new AI tools and messaging updates

Meta has increased its use of AI-powered automation across Facebook Messenger, Instagram, and WhatsApp.

Businesses can now use ‘Business AI’ to generate automated responses — but older tools like Recurring Notifications are being phased out in favour of new standards within the Meta Business Suite Inbox.

What to do:

  • Check your automated message settings in Meta Business Suite.
  • Make sure your responses still sound natural and align with your brand.
  • If you prefer human-only responses, turn off AI automation — simply toggle the AI setting off for that chat.

Keeping your messaging up to date ensures customers get the right information quickly — and that your page feels personal, not robotic.

10. Optimise Your Social Bios and Profiles
Your social media bios now act like mini landing pages. Even if someone discovers your business through a reel or tagged post, it’s your profile that decides whether they follow, visit, or buy.

Make sure your profiles clearly communicate who you are, what you do, and where you’re located.

Quick checklist for your social bios:
• Clear ‘who you are + where you are’ — e.g. “Family café in Aldinga serving locally roasted coffee.”
• Contact buttons enabled — make it easy to call, message, or find you.
• Updated hours, links, and highlights — consistency builds trust.
• Use Highlights or pinned posts for menus, events, or FAQs.

A well-optimised profile builds instant trust, boosts credibility, and turns casual scrollers into local customers.

11. Community engagement is gold

Building a loyal local following means being part of the conversation, not just posting onto it.

Tips:

  • Reply to comments and messages quickly and genuinely. Even a short reply boosts visibility.
  • Join relevant local Facebook groups and engage as your business (where appropriate).
  • Encourage your followers to tag friends or share your posts.

Every share, save, and comment sends a positive signal to the algorithm — and to potential new customers.

The bottom line

In 2026, social media is no longer just about posting attractive content — it’s about visibility, relevance, and local connection to be found by the right people.

If you’re a local business in Onkaparinga, start small:

  • Simplify your hashtags,
  • Add your location and keywords,
  • Keep your content community-focused,
  • And update your Google Business Profile regularly.

These simple steps will help more locals discover your business online — and keep you visible in a fast-changing digital landscape.

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