High Court case disputes sweeping under-16 rule
Reddit launches a High Court challenge against Australia’s new law that blocks users under 16 from joining major social platforms. The law came into effect on Wednesday and forces ten companies to restrict young Australians. Supporters argue the ban protects children from harmful content and manipulative algorithms.
Reddit complies with the law but warns it poses serious risks to privacy and political rights. Two teenagers are also pursuing a separate case awaiting a High Court hearing.
Company says law misreads youth online 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. Communications Minister Anika Wells says the government will remain firm and will not let large tech firms influence policy decisions.
Teens argue the ban limits political participation
Two 15-year-olds from New South Wales claim the rule violates the implied freedom to discuss political and government matters. One teen says democratic engagement does not start at 16 and criticizes the age limit as unfair.
Experts warn children will bypass restrictions
Analysts predict many young users will trick verification systems or move to less safe online spaces. Advocates argue the ban removes essential social connections. LGBTQ+, neurodivergent, and rural teenagers rely heavily on online communities for support.
Prominent figures back Australia’s tough stance
Parents largely support the measure, and public figures like Oprah Winfrey and Prince Harry and Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, praise Australia’s actions. The couple calls the ban bold but says it should not have been necessary. They hope it sparks a broader reassessment of tech companies prioritizing growth over safety.
Australia enforces the world’s strictest youth rules
Governments worldwide test limits on children’s access to digital platforms. Australia goes further than any other country with its age limit of 16 and refusal to allow parental consent as an exemption. The country now enforces the strictest youth social media rules worldwide.
Reddit criticizes intrusive checks and inconsistent coverage
Reddit argues the law forces invasive and insecure verification for both adults and minors. The platform says the ban isolates teens from age-appropriate communities and creates an inconsistent list of platforms. It calls for targeted, privacy-focused protections instead of blanket bans.
The company emphasizes the case does not aim to avoid compliance or retain young users. Most Reddit members are adults, and it does not target ads at anyone under 18. Other platforms affected include Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok.
