High Court challenge targets under-16 ban
Reddit launches a High Court case against Australia’s new rule blocking all users under 16 from joining major social platforms. The law took effect on Wednesday and requires ten companies to prevent young Australians from registering accounts. Supporters argue the ban shields minors from harmful content and manipulative algorithms.
Reddit follows the law but warns it poses serious threats to privacy and political rights. Two teenagers also prepare a separate challenge awaiting a High Court hearing.
Company says policy misunderstands online youth behavior
“Despite good intentions, this law misses the mark,” Reddit writes on its website. The platform urges the government to implement effective and less intrusive protections for children. Communications Minister Anika Wells says the government will remain firm and will not let large tech firms influence its decisions.
Teens argue the ban restricts political speech
Two 15-year-olds from New South Wales argue that the rule violates the implied freedom to discuss political and governmental matters. One teen says democratic participation does not start at 16 and calls the age limit unfair.
Experts warn children will bypass restrictions
Analysts expect many young people to trick age-verification systems or move to less safe online spaces. Advocates argue the ban removes crucial social connections. They highlight that LGBTQ+, neurodivergent, and rural teenagers rely heavily on online communities.
Prominent voices support Australia’s stance
Parents widely back the measure, and public figures like Oprah Winfrey and Prince Harry and Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, praise Australia’s action. The couple calls the move bold but says it should not have been necessary. They hope it sparks a broader reassessment of tech companies that prioritised growth over safety.
Australia enforces the world’s strictest youth limits
Countries worldwide experiment with rules limiting children’s social media use. Australia goes further with its age limit of 16 and refusal to allow parental consent as an exemption. The country now applies the strictest youth access rules globally.
Reddit criticizes intrusive checks and uneven regulations
Reddit argues the law forces invasive and insecure verification for adults and minors. The platform says the ban isolates teens from age-appropriate communities and creates inconsistent coverage of platforms. Reddit calls for targeted, privacy-focused protections instead of blanket bans.
The platform emphasizes the challenge does not aim to avoid compliance or retain young users. Reddit notes most members are adults and does not direct advertising at anyone under 18. Other platforms affected include Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok.
