Rights group challenges Australia's landmark social media age ban in court

The constitutional challenge will be heard in Australia's High Court as the nation's contentious social media ban faces its first major legal test. The rights group contends that the legislation, which became law earlier this year, imposes restrictions that breach constitutional protections afforded to young people.

Australia's social media ban represents the strictest age-restriction framework globally, requiring technology companies to prevent under-16s from accessing major social platforms including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat. The government has framed the policy as essential child protection, citing concerns about online harms, mental health impacts, and exploitation.

The legal challenge centers on whether the restrictions disproportionately limit young people's rights to free expression and communication without sufficient justification. Proponents of the ban argue these measures are necessary safeguards, while critics contend that less restrictive alternatives could address safety concerns without imposing blanket prohibitions.

The High Court proceedings mark a critical juncture for the legislation, with potential implications extending beyond Australia. The outcome could influence how other nations approach regulating social media access for minors and balancing child protection against individual freedoms.