Reddit Fights Australia’s Social Media Ban for Teens in High Court

Reddit is suing the Australian government. The company filed a lawsuit in Australia’s High Court this week. It challenges a new law banning children under 16 from social media.

The law took effect on December 10. It requires major platforms to deactivate accounts for users under 16. Reddit argues the ban infringes on free political discourse for young people.

Reddit’s Unusual Defense: “We Are Not Social Media”

In its legal filing, Reddit makes a novel argument. The company claims it should be exempt from the law. It states the platform does not fit Australia’s definition of a “social media platform.”

According to Reuters, Reddit describes itself as a “collection of public fora.” Its purpose, the filing argues, is knowledge sharing, not social interaction. The company contrasts itself with platforms built for friends or personal photos.

This distinction is central to the case. If the court accepts Reddit’s definition, it could be excluded from the ban. The outcome may influence how other informational platforms are regulated globally.

Broader Implications for Privacy and Free Speech Online

The lawsuit raises significant questions beyond age verification. Reddit warns of serious privacy and expression issues for all users. In a company post, an admin said the law forces intrusive verification on adults too.

The company suggests the law creates an inconsistent patchwork of rules. It also argues that allowing monitored accounts is safer than pushing teens to access content anonymously. This legal battle highlights the global struggle to balance child protection with digital rights.

The High Court’s decision on the Australia social media ban will set a major precedent. It will define platform responsibilities and young people’s online rights for years to come.

Info at your fingertips

What is Australia’s new social media law?

It is a law that requires ten major online services to deactivate accounts for users under 16. The goal is to prevent children from accessing social media platforms. It came into force on December 10, 2025.

Why is Reddit suing the Australian government?

Reddit argues the law limits free political discourse for minors. The company also claims it does not legally qualify as a “social media platform” under the law’s definition. It is seeking an exemption or for the law to be overturned.

What is Reddit’s main argument in the case?

Reddit states its primary purpose is not social interaction but knowledge sharing. It calls itself a “collection of public fora.” This, it argues, makes it fundamentally different from friendship-based apps like Facebook or Instagram.

How could this case affect other websites?

The ruling could redefine what constitutes a social media service in law. Other forums, message boards, or content-sharing sites might seek similar exemptions. It could influence similar legislation being considered in other countries.

What are the privacy concerns with the law?

Critics say verifying users’ ages requires collecting sensitive personal data from everyone. This creates a privacy risk for all adults on the platform. There are also concerns about the security of these verification systems.