This working paper is designed to provide background information on the aims and methods of the Automated Decision-Making and Society (ADM+S) Australian Ad Observatory research project. The authors describe the rationale and broader context for the project, focusing on the need for improved observability of how Australians are being targeted with ads online. They discuss the need for new research methods and tools, such as data donation, and position these methods within broader initiatives to develop ‘citizen science’ approaches for the digital platform environment. The paper then describes the project’s methods in further detail and discusses how the results can inform the public and policy-makers about online targeted advertising in Australia.