Platform mounts major High Court challenge
Reddit launches a High Court challenge against Australia’s new rule that bans all users under 16 from social media. The law began on Wednesday and forces ten platforms to block young Australians. Supporters claim the measure shields minors from harmful content and manipulative algorithms.
Reddit follows the regulation but warns of severe threats to privacy and political rights. Two Australian teenagers pursue a separate challenge that also awaits a High Court date.
Company says the law misjudges core issues
“Despite good intentions, this law misses the mark,” Reddit states on its website. The company urges the government to adopt stronger and less intrusive protections. Communications Minister Anika Wells insists the government will hold firm and says major tech firms will not push it off course.
Youth argue the ban limits political voice
Two 15-year-olds from New South Wales claim the rule breaches the implied freedom to discuss political matters. One teen stresses that democratic participation does not start at 16 and calls the age limit unreasonable.
Specialists expect easy workarounds
Experts warn that many children will bypass the system by deceiving age checks or by turning to riskier online spaces. Young people and some mental-health advocates argue the ban cuts off essential social connections. They say LGBTQ+, neurodivergent and rural youths rely on digital communities for support.
Public figures praise tough action
Parents strongly support the rule, and well-known voices such as Oprah Winfrey and Prince Harry and Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, endorse Australia’s approach. The couple praises the bold step but says it should not have been necessary. They hope the move prompts a deeper rethink of tech firms that prioritised growth over safety.
Australia sets unprecedented global standard
Governments around the world test new limits on young users’ access. Australia goes furthest with its age limit of 16 and its refusal to allow parental consent as a workaround. The country now enforces the strictest rules anywhere.
Reddit warns of intrusive checks and inconsistent rules
Reddit argues the law forces insecure and intrusive verification for adults and minors. The platform says the ban isolates teens from age-appropriate spaces and creates an inconsistent list of targeted services. It calls for precise and privacy-preserving protections instead of blanket bans.
The company stresses that the case is not an attempt to avoid compliance or keep young users. Reddit notes that most members are adults and that it does not target advertising to anyone under 18. Other affected platforms include Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat and TikTok.
