The Australian government is currently defending its legislative decision to ban social media access for children under 16 against a High Court challenge. In court filings, the government admitted that there is no definitive scientific consensus proving that social media use is the primary cause of mental health issues in adolescents. Despite this admission, the government argues that the policy is necessary to mitigate "credible risks" associated with digital platforms, specifically citing concerns over addictive behaviors and increased anxiety among young users.

As part of its legal defense, the government pointed to its broader "digital duty of care" legislation as a supporting measure. This proposed framework would allow users to opt out of specific platform features, such as algorithmic feeds, which the government suggests would achieve similar protective outcomes to the total ban. The legal challenge highlights the tension between the government’s precautionary approach to digital safety and the lack of conclusive longitudinal data regarding the long-term psychological impacts of social media on minors. The government’s stance emphasizes a proactive regulatory strategy, prioritizing the prevention of potential harm over waiting for absolute scientific certainty.