CANBERRA, Nov 4 – Australia has defended its world-first ban on social media accounts for children under 16, telling the country’s High Court that the restrictions are necessary to protect young people’s physical and mental health.
The government argued that social media platforms expose children to harmful online experiences. These include addictive features, excessive screen time and content that may affect their developing minds.
The legal challenge was brought by Reddit and the Digital Freedom Project, a libertarian advocacy group. They argue that the ban unfairly restricts young people’s freedom to communicate and take part in public discussions.
Government lawyer Stephen Lloyd told the court that the restrictions place only a limited burden on political communication.
He said children can still access some online content without holding an account.
Australia says social media restrictions protect children
Australia introduced the under-16 social media ban in December 2025.
The law requires major platforms to take reasonable steps to stop children under 16 from creating or keeping accounts.
The restrictions cover 10 platforms:
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Facebook
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Instagram
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Threads
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Snapchat
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TikTok
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YouTube
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Reddit
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X
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Twitch
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Kick
The government says the measure aims to reduce children’s exposure to online risks linked to platform design and user engagement.
These features include endless scrolling, personalised recommendations, likes, comments and push notifications.
Authorities believe these features can encourage excessive use and contribute to problems such as poor sleep, anxiety and depression.
Reddit challenges the ban over freedom of expression
Reddit and the Digital Freedom Project argue that the law goes too far.
They say it prevents young people from sharing opinions, joining discussions and participating in civic activities online.
Reddit also disputes its inclusion among the platforms covered by the restrictions.
The company argues that there are other ways to improve online safety without completely restricting under-16s from holding accounts.
The government, however, maintains that the law does not target particular political opinions. It also says children and their parents will not face penalties for breaking the rules.
Platforms face heavy penalties for non-compliance
Under the legislation, social media companies can face fines of up to A$99 million for serious or systemic failures to comply.
Children and their parents are not directly punished.
However, enforcement remains a challenge. Studies by Australian authorities have found that many children under 16 continue to use social media despite the restrictions.
The government has said it is preparing legal action over compliance issues.
It also acknowledged that some platforms may be struggling with age-verification technology or may not have fully implemented the required measures.
High Court ruling could influence other countries
The court hearing has been adjourned, with the judges expected to deliver their decision at a later date.
The outcome could have wider implications for countries considering similar restrictions on children’s access to social media.
Governments around the world are increasingly examining how digital platforms affect young users.
Australia’s case could therefore become an important reference point in the debate over online safety, children’s rights and freedom of expression.
Source : BERNAMA | Rewritten By Minutesmy
