Addiction economy: Can regulators rein in social media platforms?

The Australian Health Minister has indicated that weight-loss drugs may be included in the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) as early as next year, which could make these medications more accessible to the public. This potential inclusion reflects ongoing discussions about the rising rates of obesity and the need for effective treatment options in Australia.

Reddit has initiated a High Court challenge against Australia's new law prohibiting social media access for individuals under 16, which is set to take effect on December 10, 2025. The company argues that this landmark policy poses serious implications for privacy and political rights in Australia.

Authorities in Australia have reported an incident involving a skydiver whose parachute opened unexpectedly just before his jump. The unidentified man was seen on video cutting the cords of his back-up parachute in an effort to safely descend to the ground.

Reddit has launched a high court challenge against Australia's new law that bans social media access for individuals under 16, which took effect on December 10, 2025. The platform argues that the law infringes on the implied freedom of political communication as outlined in the constitution, while also expressing concerns about the intrusive verification processes it imposes on users of all ages.

President Donald Trump's administration has announced a new policy requiring travelers from Europe and other countries using the visa waiver program to disclose their social media handles from the past five years. This move has sparked significant backlash from a U.S. travel association, prominent Democrats, and potential travelers from Europe and Australia, who view it as an invasion of privacy.

President Donald Trump's administration has proposed a new policy requiring travelers from Europe and other countries using the visa waiver program to disclose their social media handles from the past five years. This initiative has sparked significant backlash from a U.S. travel association, a prominent Democrat, and potential travelers from Europe and Australia, raising concerns over privacy and civil liberties.

A class action lawsuit has been filed against TikTok, accusing the platform of failing to protect children and seeking damages. This legal action follows findings by Canadian privacy commissioners regarding TikTok's targeted advertising practices and inadequate age verification measures.

The Trump administration has proposed a policy requiring visa applicants from 42 countries, including the UK, Australia, and Germany, to disclose their social media, phone, and email histories for vetting before entering the US. Critics have labeled this move as a form of censorship that undermines civil liberties and could deter tourism, particularly ahead of major events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup.