Australia: Meta and its social media platforms, Facebook and Instagram, are facing a class action lawsuit in Australia over allegations that their addictive design features are harming children and teenagers.
Filed by law firm MinterEllison in the Australian Federal Court, the lawsuit seeks compensation for current and former Facebook and Instagram users who claim they were exposed to harmful content or developed social media addiction as a result of using the platforms.
The class action has been brought on behalf of eight plaintiffs who allege they suffered harm while using Meta’s platforms before turning 18. In a suppression order issued, the court prohibited the publication of information that could identify the plaintiffs or reveal details of the statement of claim.
MinterEllison Partner William Nolan remarked that, “This proceeding raises important questions about the design and operation of social media platforms and their impact on children and teenagers in Australia. Those questions will now be considered through the Federal Court process.”
Responding to the lawsuit, a Meta spokesperson stated that the company was aware of the claim and would defend itself vigorously. Litigation Lending Services is funding the legal action, supporting Australian families who may otherwise lack the financial resources to pursue claims against a major global technology company.
The lawsuit comes with growing scrutiny of social media companies in Australia, where authorities have introduced stricter measures to protect young users online. In December 2025, Australia implemented a world-first ban preventing children under 16 from accessing major social media platforms, including Facebook and Instagram.
The country is also considering additional measures to give users greater control over algorithm-driven content appearing in their social media feeds. The proposed rules could allow users to opt out of personalised recommendations, increasing pressure on technology companies to make their platforms more transparent.
Meta has also faced legal challenges in the United States over allegations that its platforms were designed to encourage addictive behaviour among young users. In August 2026, the company agreed to pay $18 billion to settle claims brought by nearly all US states concerning the alleged effects of its social media platforms on children.
The Australian case adds to the growing international debate over social media companies’ responsibilities for protecting children and teenagers, with platform design, online safety and the effects of algorithm-driven content remaining key areas of concern.
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