The Briefing Huge fines for Apple and Meta + 'Not the truth police’ AEC on influencers
Apr 23, 2025
Evan Eakin-Smyth, a spokesperson for the Australian Electoral Commission, dives into the intricate relationship between politics and social media. He sheds light on the AEC's crucial role in maintaining electoral integrity while addressing the challenges posed by influencer-driven misinformation. The discussion also touches on hefty fines for tech giants Apple and Meta, revealing the increasing scrutiny they're under. Eakin-Smyth emphasizes the need for transparency in political messaging as elections approach, highlighting the evolving landscape of campaign regulations.
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Episode notes
AEC Ensures Transparency Not Truth
- The AEC is not about policing truth but about ensuring voters know the source of political communications.
- Transparency helps voters assess the material before voting without limiting freedom of expression.
Modern Media Challenges Transparency
- Modern media, such as influencers and podcasters, complicate election law application.
- Disclosure of paid political content is vital for voter clarity on campaign sources.
Use Authorisation Statements
- Always include an authorisation statement when posting political content if paid or affiliated with a political party.
- This maintains transparency about who funds or endorses the communication.