Class action accuses Facebook and Instagram of addicting Australian children

The claim against Meta

A class-action lawsuit filed in an Australian court alleges that Meta Platforms' Facebook and Instagram exposed children to harmful content and kept them addicted through algorithms ^[1]. The suit could be the first in Australia to blame social media for harming its users, particularly children and teenagers ^[1].

It was filed in the Federal Court, which is Australia's second-highest court, by law firm MinterEllison ^[1]. The filing is on behalf of eight applicants ^[2].

Who could be compensated

The suit seeks compensation for Facebook and Instagram users who were exposed to harmful content or developed an addiction to social media ^[2]. Law firm Minter Ellison and Litigation Lending said in a statement that the suit was filed ^[2].

Litigation Lending Services said it is funding the class action for Australian families who would have no practical means of pursuing these claims against a global technology giant ^[2].

What the lawyers and Meta say

Minter Ellison partner William Nolan said the proceeding raises important questions about the design and operation of social media platforms and their impact on children and teenagers in Australia ^[2].

A Meta spokesperson said the company is aware of the claim and will defend itself vigorously ^[1].

A suppression order limits reporting

The Federal Court in Sydney issued a suppression order on Monday stopping publication of details of the claim and the identity of the applicants ^[2]. The order prohibits reporting of any information that could reveal the applicants' identity, and of the statement of claim ^[1].

Tension between Australia and Big Tech

The lawsuit comes amid rising tensions between Australia and Big Tech after a world-first ban on social media for children under 16 ^[1]. Newly proposed rules in Australia could also let users switch off algorithm-driven content on their feeds ^[1].