Core Viewpoint - Reddit has initiated a legal challenge against Australia's social media ban for teens under 16, claiming the law is ineffective and overly restrictive on political discussions online [1][4]. Group 1: Legal Challenge - Reddit's application to Australia's High Court argues that the law is "invalid on the basis of the implied freedom of political communication" and burdens political communication [1][3]. - The platform seeks either to declare the law invalid or to exclude itself from its provisions [3]. Group 2: Law Details - The law requires targeted platforms to take "reasonable steps" to prevent underage access, utilizing age-verification methods such as online activity inference, facial estimation via selfies, uploaded IDs, or linked bank details [2][3]. - The ban affects 10 major services, including YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, and Reddit [2]. Group 3: Reddit's Position - Reddit emphasizes that while it supports protecting individuals under 16, the law could isolate teens from engaging in age-appropriate community experiences, including political discussions [4]. - The platform argues that its nature as a forum for adults facilitates knowledge sharing rather than functioning as a traditional social network [4][5]. - Reddit states that most content is accessible without an account, and having an account could provide better protection for users under 16 through customizable settings [5]. Group 4: Compliance and Alternatives - Despite its objections, Reddit clarifies that the challenge is not an attempt to evade compliance with the law or retain young users for business reasons [6]. - The platform advocates for more targeted, privacy-preserving measures to protect young people online instead of blanket bans [6].
Reddit challenges Australia's under-16 social media ban in High Court filing, says law curbs political speech