Reddit has filed a challenge in Australia’s High Court against the country’s pioneering social media ban for users under the age of 16. The platform, which is among 10 social media companies required to bar underage Australians from holding accounts, is complying with the law while contesting its validity. In its legal case, Reddit argues that the ban carries serious implications for privacy rights and freedom of political communication.
The social media ban—which took effect this week—has drawn international attention as one of the world’s strictest youth protection measures. While the Australian government and child safety advocates defend it as necessary to shield minors from harmful content and algorithmic risks, Reddit contends the approach is misguided. “Despite the best intentions, this law is missing the mark,” the company stated, advocating for what it calls more effective alternatives to achieve youth safety online.
This marks the second High Court challenge to the ban. Earlier, two 15-year-olds from New South Wales filed a separate case arguing the legislation violates the implied constitutional freedom of political communication. “Democracy doesn’t start at 16 as this law says it will,” one of the teens, Macey Newland. Both cases are expected to be heard next year, though exact dates remain unconfirmed.
Communications Minister Anika Wells has reaffirmed the government’s resolve, stating, “We will not be intimidated by big tech.” The ban continues to polarize opinion globally, with some leaders viewing it as a bold safeguard for children, while critics—including digital rights advocates—warn that blanket restrictions may be impractical and could stifle young people’s access to information and civic discourse.
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