Reddit has launched a legal challenge against Australia’s law that requires social media platforms to block users under the age of 16. The case has been filed with the High Court and targets legislation that came into force in December 2025. The law obliges platforms to take reasonable steps to prevent children under 16 from holding accounts and introduces penalties of up to AUD 49.5 million for companies that fail to comply. Reddit argues that the measure goes beyond child protection and raises constitutional concerns.
In its filing, Reddit contends that the law infringes Australia’s implied freedom of political communication. The company said the restriction could limit the ability of younger people to access online forums where public issues are discussed. Reddit’s submission argues that online participation plays a role in civic engagement and that a blanket ban on account access for under-16s risks excluding young people from age-appropriate discussion spaces. The company stated that its challenge is focused on legal clarity rather than commercial interests.
Reddit also disputes how it is classified under the legislation. The company said its platform differs from other services covered by the law because it is organised around topic-based forums rather than personal profiles or algorithm-driven feeds. It noted that users often participate anonymously and that much of the content is text-based discussion rather than image or video sharing. Reddit argued that these characteristics distinguish it from platforms commonly associated with youth-focused social media use.
The law applies broadly to major platforms and places responsibility for enforcement entirely on companies rather than on minors or parents. It requires services to implement age assurance measures to identify and remove underage accounts. Critics have said that these requirements may result in wider data collection affecting all users, not only children. Reddit’s filing raises concerns that such verification systems could impose privacy burdens on adult users as well.
The legal challenge follows earlier action brought by Australian teenagers who also argue that the law interferes with constitutional protections. Those cases are expected to be heard alongside Reddit’s challenge. Government representatives have said the legislation is necessary to reduce online harms faced by children, including exposure to harmful content and design features that encourage excessive use. Officials have stated that the government will defend the law and that enforcement will continue while the case proceeds.
The outcome of the case may influence how age-based access rules are applied in Australia. Legal observers said a ruling against the government could require revisions to the law or changes in how platforms are regulated. The case is being closely watched as other countries consider similar measures aimed at limiting children’s access to social media services.