
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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Quick takeaways
- The Australian Electoral Commission is adapting to modern campaigning by emphasizing transparency in political content shared on social media.
- Recent controversies highlight the challenges of regulating influencer marketing in elections, with concerns about misleading advertising and insufficient penalties for violations.
Deep dives
The Role of the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC)
The Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) plays a crucial role in ensuring the integrity of the electoral process in Australia. Its primary functions include maintaining electoral rolls and providing various voting options, ensuring that the election process is both accessible and transparent. Recently, the AEC has faced scrutiny regarding modern campaigning methods, including the use of influencers and social media. This shift has complicated their role, requiring them to clarify what constitutes authorized communication in the context of political content online.
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