US-based platform Reddit has filed a problem in Australia’s High Court in search of to overturn the nation’s world-first social media ban for under-16s, arguing the legislation infringes on free political speech and poses critical privateness dangers.
The firm, which is complying with the laws whereas contesting it, argues the Online Safety Amendment (Social Media Minimum Age) Act 2024 unconstitutionally restricts political communication by blocking younger Australians from taking part in on-line political discourse.
Reddit has filed a problem in Australia’s High Court in search of to overturn the nation’s world-first social media ban for under-16s.Credit: Bloomberg
In its submitting seen by this masthead, Reddit argues “the political opinions of youngsters inform the electoral decisions of many present electors, together with their dad and mom and their lecturers” and that stopping youngsters from speaking their views “straight burdens political communication in Australia”.
The firm additionally says the legislation is ineffective, noting that “an individual beneath the age of 16 might be extra simply shielded from on-line hurt if they’ve an account, being the very factor that’s prohibited” as a result of accounts can have security settings utilized.
Reddit mentioned it was appearing on behalf of its Australian customers, who’ve expressed considerations about being compelled to submit authorities ID or facial scans to entry a platform constructed on pseudonymity. The firm mentioned it had by no means collected age data earlier than and has needed to construct fully new verification techniques to conform.
The platform additionally argues it shouldn’t be captured by the legislation in any respect, given it operates as a public discussion board for adults somewhat than a standard social media community, with content material accessible with out an account.
A instructions listening to is predicted in February, with a remaining judgment doubtlessly not arriving till late 2026.
The problem comes as a separate High Court motion backed by teen advocates additionally contests the laws.
