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Reddit takes legal action against Australia's child social media ban
The online discussion platform has launched a High Court challenge against Australia's new law prohibiting social media accounts for users under 16, which took effect this week.
Law comes into force amid global attention
Australia's Online Safety (Protecting Australians from Harmful Online Content) Act began enforcement on Wednesday, requiring 10 major platforms-including Reddit, Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok-to block users under 16. The measure, described by supporters as a safeguard against harmful content and manipulative algorithms, has drawn international scrutiny as the first of its kind.
Privacy and free speech concerns raised
While complying with the ban, Reddit argues the policy overreaches, risking privacy and political freedoms. In a statement, the company called the law "missing the mark" and advocated for "more effective, targeted measures" to protect youth without resorting to blanket restrictions.
"There are more effective ways for the Australian government to accomplish our shared goal of protecting youth."
Reddit
Reddit contends the law imposes "intrusive and potentially insecure verification processes" on all users, isolates teens from "age-appropriate community experiences," and creates an "illogical patchwork" of included platforms. The company emphasized its user base is predominantly adult and denied any financial motive, stating it does not market to or target under-18s.
Government defends policy amid legal battles
Communications Minister Anika Wells dismissed legal threats, affirming the government's resolve. "We will not be intimidated by big tech. On behalf of Australian parents, we will stand firm," she told Parliament last month.
The High Court is already set to hear a separate challenge from two 15-year-old New South Wales students, who argue the ban violates Australia's implied constitutional freedom of political communication. "Democracy doesn't start at 16," plaintiff Macey Newland told the BBC.
Critics warn of unintended consequences
Experts and advocates warn the ban may backfire, with children likely to bypass age checks or migrate to less regulated online spaces. Mental health professionals and youth advocates argue the policy deprives marginalized groups-such as LGBTQ+, neurodivergent, or rural teens-of vital social connections and leaves them ill-prepared for digital life.
Despite criticism, the law enjoys broad parental support and high-profile endorsements, including from Oprah Winfrey and Prince Harry and Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex. The couple praised Australia's "bold" action but cautioned that "it shouldn't have come to this," urging tech companies to prioritize safety over growth.
Australia's stance sets global precedent
The ban is the strictest worldwide, with no exemptions for parental consent-a departure from policies in Florida (US) and the European Union. Reddit's challenge underscores tensions between child protection and digital rights, with implications for future regulations.
The High Court has yet to schedule hearings for either case, but rulings could reshape Australia's approach to online safety and influence global policy debates.
