Reddit takes legal action against Australia’s ban on youth social media use
Reddit has taken legal action against Australia’s recently implemented social media ban for users under the age of 16. The lawsuit was filed in the High Court, where Reddit argues that the law infringes on the implied freedom of political communication.
Details of the Legal Challenge
In its complaint, Reddit describes the ban as “invalid” due to its restriction on free political expression. The company has named the Commonwealth of Australia and Communications Minister Anika Wells as defendants in this case.
According to Reddit’s legal representatives, Perry Herzfeld and Jackson Wherrett, the law poses significant issues not only for privacy but also for political expression across the internet.
Background of the Law
Two days before Reddit’s filing, Australia enacted the world’s first legally enforced age limit for accessing social media platforms. This landmark legislation applies to various platforms, including Meta’s Instagram, Alphabet’s YouTube, and TikTok.
- Under the law, platforms must block users under 16 or face fines up to $45 million.
- Age verification methods include age inference based on online behavior and age estimation through selfies.
Reactions and Ongoing Challenges
The Australian government has stated its readiness to defend the law against any legal challenges. Critics of the policy emphasize the unreliability of age verification processes. Concerns have also emerged regarding young users finding ways to circumvent the ban.
Earlier in the month, another challenge to the legislation was filed by two teenagers alongside an Australian libertarian lawmaker. This case is scheduled for a hearing in February.
Reddit, however, has indicated that it will not join forces with other challengers to the ban. The platform is focused on its individual legal strategy to contest the restrictions on youth social media use in Australia.
