Reddit vs. Australia: Age ban heads to court

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Reddit has launched a High Court challenge against the Australian government’s new law that prohibits users under 16 from accessing social media platforms. The law, which came into effect on December 10, requires platforms to verify the age of users and deny access to those underage. Reddit argues that the legislation violates the implied constitutional right to freedom of political communication in Australia. It also claims the law is flawed in scope, stating Reddit should not even be classified as a social media service under the definitions used by Australian regulators.

Reddit’s legal move follows a similar suit by another company, but Reddit’s global profile and $44 billion valuation give this case broader implications. The platform warns that the ban sets a dangerous precedent for online expression and raises significant concerns around user privacy and the surveillance-like mechanisms required for age verification. According to Reddit, young people use the site for civic discourse, access to news, and political engagement—all of which could now be curtailed.

The Australian government has defended the law robustly. Communications Minister Michelle Rowland said the legislation aims to protect children, not tech companies, while Health Minister Mark Butler compared Reddit’s opposition to Big Tobacco’s historical resistance to public safety regulations.

At the heart of the case is a tension between child safety and civil liberties. Reddit contends the law is overly broad and not fit for purpose, while the government argues decisive action is needed to safeguard mental health and well-being.

The High Court ruling could set a global precedent for how governments balance age restrictions, privacy, and free expression online—especially as more nations explore similar legislation.