Australia's push to restrict under-16s from social media is facing a legal backlash, with X arguing that proposed legislation risks violating privacy and international law. The company submitted a strong defense against tougher penalties, warning that such invasive measures could damage diplomatic relations.

The ban, which came into effect in December, has drawn criticism not just from tech giants but also from Elon Musk himself, who previously described it as an attempt to control internet access for all Australians. In May, X was fined $463,000 for non-compliance with child safety measures.

However, the debate over such bans is complex. Stefania Di Stefano argues that a blanket ban on social media access for children could be seen as disproportionate under international human rights law. Meanwhile, Julia Hörnle suggests that regulatory demands within Australia's borders are reasonable and do not necessarily pose an international threat.

The ongoing tension between global tech companies and local regulations highlights the challenges of balancing digital privacy with child protection in a highly interconnected world. As more countries consider similar measures, the legal arguments made by X will likely play a significant role.