Reddit Challenges Australia’s Child Social Media Ban in High Court

Reddit has filed a legal challenge against Australia’s new child social media ban. The case was lodged in the High Court this week. The company says the law harms online rights and places new risks on all users. It also says the ban blocks teens from taking part in normal online life.The challenge comes as rules now bar anyone under 16 from using major social apps. This includes Reddit, TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and others. Platforms that fail to remove underage accounts face large fines. This issue has become one of the biggest digital policy fights in Australia this year.

Reddit Legal Challenge Raises New Concerns

According to Associated Press, Reddit says the law is too broad. It says the rules force adults and teens to hand over sensitive ID data. The company warns that age checks may expose users to privacy and security risks. It also says the law stops teens from joining political and public discussions.Reddit says it does not aim content at children under 18. It says under‑16 users are not a key part of its base. The company argues that the law still harms all users because it demands strict checks on every account. It calls the current setup an “illogical patchwork,” as email and messaging apps are not part of the ban.The government says it will defend the law. It says it is acting to protect young people. Officials say they want strong action from platforms. They also say they will continue to enforce the new rules.

Impact on Social Platforms and Users

Platforms must now remove underage accounts or face fines up to 49.5 million Australian dollars. eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant has already sent notice orders to 10 major platforms. They must report how many underage accounts they have removed. She says more orders will come every six months.Apps like Messenger, WhatsApp, Discord, Roblox, and WeChat are exempt. This has raised new questions about fairness. Some platforms say the rules target social feeds but ignore other apps with heavy teen use. This difference will likely be part of the legal debate.Reddit says it will still follow the law while the case continues. Age checks may involve ID scans, facial analysis, or past account data. The High Court will hold a first hearing in late February. Another case filed by the Digital Freedom Project may be heard at the same time.

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The debate over the child social media ban is now a key tech issue in Australia. The Reddit challenge means the High Court will decide how far the country can go in limiting online access. The outcome may shape global rules on youth safety and free speech.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Why did Reddit challenge the child social media ban?

Reddit says the ban harms privacy and free expression. It argues the required age checks put users at risk. It also says teens lose access to normal online groups.

Q2: What penalties do platforms face under the ban?

Platforms may be fined up to 49.5 million Australian dollars. They must show they take steps to remove underage accounts. Reports are due every six months.

Q3: Which apps are covered by the ban?

Major social apps like Reddit, TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and X are covered. Some apps such as WhatsApp and Discord are exempt. This has raised questions about consistency.

Q4: How will age checks work?

Platforms may use ID scans, facial age tools, or user data checks. Each method must meet safety rules. These checks must be done for all new users.

Q5: When will the High Court hear the case?

A first hearing is set for late February. The Digital Freedom Project case may join it. The court will set full hearing dates later.