Australia’s High Court hears bid to overturn under-16s social media ban

What the report says

Australia’s High Court has begun hearing a legal challenge to the country’s under-16 social media ban, a law that took effect last December and is now facing its first major test. According to Al Jazeera, the case was brought by Reddit and the advocacy group Digital Freedom Project, both of which say the restriction is unlawful or unconstitutional in how it limits access for young users.

In court submissions reported by the outlet, Reddit argued the ban is difficult to enforce, may not be backed by a scientific consensus on harms, and could leave some young people less protected because account-based safety tools are removed. The company said platforms had already deleted millions of underage accounts and face penalties if they fail to comply. Australia’s government, by contrast, says the rules are meant to shield minors from graphic content and online predators.

Digital Freedom Project, led by New South Wales politician John Ruddick, argues the policy goes too far by restricting teenagers’ ability to participate in political discussion and access news. The group says it could also reduce connection and support for young Australians.

The hearing comes amid broader Australian efforts to tighten online safety rules for children. The article also notes that researchers published a study in August suggesting many teenagers may still be using social media despite the ban, though that point is presented as background rather than a court finding.