Australia defends under-16s social media ban as Reddit challenges it in court
The government defends the under-16s social media ban based on credible mental health risks, without scientific proof.
The Australian government is defending its ban on social media for under-16s. The government admits the ban came before scientific consensus on the link between platforms and mental health.
The government argues that credible risks justify the action: addictive behaviour, sleep loss, depression, and anxiety. In court, Reddit argues the ban violates free speech rights and fails to address harm.
Reddit points out that some platforms are excluded. It also notes that the banned features remain available outside accounts.
The government says the ban is working. It points to nearly 5 million accounts removed in December.
Reddit itself suspended 43,962 accounts between December and March. Two cases against the ban are expected to be heard jointly before the end of 2026.
The government has also boosted the eSafety Commissioner's powers and doubled fines to nearly $100 million for platform non-compliance.
- Nearly 5 million in December
- Accounts removed
- Nearly 44,000
- Reddit accounts suspended
- Nearly $100 million
- Fines doubled to
Why it mattersThe court's decision will determine whether governments can restrict digital platforms on precaution alone, setting a global precedent for tech regulation.
AustraliaMillions of Australian teens remain unable to access major social media platforms; the outcome will shape Australian digital policy for years.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 3 h ago
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