Meta faces Australian lawsuit over alleged social media harm to children

What happened: Meta and its Facebook and Instagram platforms face a class action in Australia's Federal Court, filed by MinterEllison, alleging addictive design features harmed children and teenagers. Key numbers: Eight plaintiffs allege harm while under 18. Why it matters: The suit adds to tensions between Australia and Big Tech after a ban on social media for children below 16 in 2025 and proposed rules letting users switch off algorithm-driven feeds. Meta said it will defend itself vigorously.

Meta and its Facebook and Instagram platforms face a class action in Australia's Federal Court, filed by MinterEllison, alleging addictive design features harmed children and teenagers.

The suit adds to tensions between Australia and Big Tech after a ban on social media for children below 16 in 2025 and proposed rules letting users switch off algorithm-driven feeds. Meta said it will defend itself vigorously.