Australia Needs Truth in Political Advertising Laws
It is perfectly legal to lie in a political advertisement and it shouldn't be.
We’ve seen it before – and we’re already seeing it again in this election. Both sides of politics have accused the other of misleading and untrue political advertising.
Whether it is an election or a referendum, voters should go to the polls armed with the facts.
These kind of laws already exist in Australia - South Australia has had truth in political advertising laws since the 1980s and the ACT recently legislated similar laws.
Following the Voice Referendum, Australia Institute research showed that almost nine in ten (87%) Australians want Parliament to pass truth in political advertising laws.
Misinformation and disinformation swamped the referendum campaign with arguments that often had little to do with what Australians were being asked to vote on.
A clear majority of Australians (72%) agreed they are concerned about lies and misinformation that circulated on social media during the referendum campaign, compared to one in five who disagreed (17%).
We need truth in political advertising laws that are nationally consistent, constitutional and uphold freedom of speech.
Add your name to the petition if you agree >
To the Australian Parliament --
Right now, it is perfectly legal to lie in a political advertisement and it shouldn't be.
It is unlawful for companies to engage in deceptive or misleading conduct, and Australians want laws to ensure political advertising is held to the same standard.
Australia Institute research shows a majority of Australians from across the political spectrum support truth in political advertising laws.
Regulating the truth is not impossible.
But we face future federal elections in which fake news and misleading claims about political opponents will only further erode trust in government.
We urge you to pass truth in political advertising laws that are nationally consistent, constitutional and uphold freedom of speech.
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