High Court Hears Arguments Over Australia Ban on Teen Social Media

Australia defends its world first social media ban for under sixteens in the nation's High Court during hearings that began on 3 November.

Lawyers for the Commonwealth argue before a seven judge panel that platforms such as Reddit are addictive, cause sleeplessness, and exacerbate attention deficit hyperactivity disorder through design features like infinite scroll, autoplay videos, and constant push notifications. Government counsel Stephen Lloyd describes the ban as a modest, viewpoint neutral, and justified measure that incrementally reduces children's digital access while protecting physical and mental health.

Reddit and a libertarian advocacy group challenge the legislation as an overbroad violation of political communication rights for minors. Legal counsel Perry Herzfeld argues that the government should regulate specific platform features rather than bar accounts entirely. Multiple studies, including research by the eSafety Commissioner and an ongoing survey by University of Newcastle investigators, show that eighty five percent of children continue using prohibited platforms.

Joanna Davidson SC states for the government that design features are broadly shared across ten designated social media platforms. Communications Minister Anika Wells expresses confidence that the legislation will withstand the constitutional challenge. The hearing is adjourned to a date to be decided.