Reddit challenges Australia's under-16s social media ban

Technology Dec 12, 2025

Reddit is taking Australia to court over a new law that blocks anyone under 16 from using social media.
This comes right after Reddit set its own age rules, but the company says the law goes too far by forcing everyone to prove their age—even adults.

Concerns about free speech and teen engagement

Reddit argues the ban unfairly limits teens' ability to join in on political and community discussions, especially since most of its users are adults and it doesn't target young people with ads.
The Digital Freedom Project has also filed a challenge, worried the law could hurt free speech.
Reddit points out there are better ways to protect kids without shutting them out completely.