Reddit Challenges Australia’s Under-16 Social Media Ban in High Court

Reddit has filed a High Court challenge against Australia’s newly implemented social media ban for children under 16, arguing that the legislation infringes on political communication and should not apply to the platform.

According to the company, the law forces “intrusive and potentially insecure” age-verification requirements on both adults and minors. Reddit stated that such measures isolate teens from engaging in age-appropriate online communities, including spaces for political discussion, while creating inconsistency in which platforms are regulated and which are exempt.

The platform highlighted that even the eSafety Commissioner expressed reservations about the law, while several human rights bodies and digital safety experts echoed concerns. The Australian Human Rights Commission noted that “less restrictive alternatives” exist that could protect young users without negatively affecting the broader public’s digital rights.

Reddit further argued that the law inaccurately categorises the platform as traditional social media, asserting that it functions primarily as a forum for adults and lacks the features the legislation seeks to regulate. The company also pointed out that it already held a 17+ age rating on Apple’s App Store prior to the ban, though it remains rated 12+ on Google Play.

While reaffirming that it is complying with the law, Reddit insisted its challenge is not motivated by commercial interests or opposition to child protection. Instead, the company stated it is advocating for more “targeted, privacy-preserving” approaches to online safety.

Reddit is among ten platforms required to block under-16 users, alongside Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat. This High Court challenge follows a similar case filed earlier by two teenagers and NSW Libertarian MP John Ruddick.

In response, the federal government defended its legislation, emphasising its commitment to safeguarding young Australians. A spokesperson said the Albanese government “stands with parents and children, not platforms,” but declined further comment as the case is now before the courts.