This report documents findings from research exploring Australians’ experiences of election misinformation in the lead up to the 2025 federal election. It discusses findings from a survey and interviews with Australian residents aged 18 and over conducted in the weeks following the 2025 federal election.  

People were asked about what kind of news and media, including traditional and social, they used to get information about the campaigns of politicians and political parties. They were asked about their views on politics generally and about how they use social media to engage with political information.   

The findings revealed election misinformation was common. Most respondents encountered some misinformation, with more politically confident and engaged individuals being more likely to report it than others. Young people were distinct from older people in their experiences.   

Key findings

• 57% of 18- to 24-year-olds said their main source of election information was social media.
• The Australian Electoral Commission (63%) and public television (54%) were the most trusted sources of news and information about the election.
• 60% said they came across election misinformation sometimes, very often or occasionally in the two weeks prior to the election.  
• Politicians and political parties (66%) were the most reported source of misinformation.
• Half of respondents (51%) have never received media literacy education.
• Only two in five (40%) were extremely or quite confident they can check if a website or social media post can be trusted.
• 83% said that truth in political advertising laws are needed nationwide.