Ban Harmful Content From Social Media Instead of Us, Say Australian Teens

Two Australian teenagers are asking the nation’s High Court to overturn a new law that will block under-16s from using social media, arguing the government should target predators and harmful content instead of restricting young people’s access.

Under rules taking effect on 10 December, platforms including Meta, TikTok and YouTube will be required to prevent anyone under the age of 16 from creating an account. The government says the measure is necessary to shield children from damaging material and the algorithms that amplify it.

But 15-year-olds Noah Jones and Macy Newland, supported by the rights group Digital Freedom Project (DFP), say the policy infringes on their right to communicate and participate fully in modern society.

Speaking to BBC Radio 4’s Today programme, Noah acknowledged that “bad things” exist online but insisted a ban is the wrong solution. He said companies should direct their resources towards removing dangerous users and harmful content rather than trying to comply with government penalties.

Ms Newland said social media and gaming do have issues, but also offer vital benefits – from education and social inclusion to staying connected with friends and family. She argued that better digital literacy, stronger safeguards, and effective age verification would be more constructive than a blanket ban.

The teenagers say the restriction would disrupt their social relationships and limit their access to political information. “Democracy doesn’t start at 16,” Ms Newland said.

DFP, led by New South Wales MP John Ruddick, confirmed the case was lodged in the High Court this week.

Communications Minister Anika Wells responded firmly in parliament, saying the government would “stand firm” on the policy despite the legal challenge and resistance from major tech companies.

Polling indicates most Australian adults support the ban, though mental health advocates warn it could isolate young people or drive them toward even less-regulated parts of the internet.