Two teens challenge under-16 social media ban in Australian High Court

melbourne: two australian teenagers are challenging the federal government in the high court, arguing that a new law banning social media accounts for under-16s is unconstitutional as it restricts the implied freedom of political communication. the law is set to take effect on december 10.the high court case is being brought by 15-year-olds noah jones and macy neyland, backed by the digital freedom project, led by nsw upper house mp john ruddick. the plaintiffs argue that the ban on platforms such as facebook, instagram, tiktok, youtube and x could impede political communication, although experts note that the restriction is content-neutral and unlikely to significantly affect youth engagement in politics.australia's law obliges certain social media platforms to prevent under-16s from holding accounts, while under-16s themselves or their families face no legal obligations. the government says the legislation aims to protect young people's online safety and well-being, citing evidence of potential harm from unregulated social media use.the plaintiffs have sought an urgent injunction to delay enforcement of the law until the high court delivers a verdict. if not granted, the ban will come into force as scheduled, even if the constitutional challenge is ultimately successful. the esafety commissioner has published resources to help families and educators prepare for the law.