The findings of this inquiry into civics education and participation in Australia shows low media literacy and inconsistent implementation is reducing engagement. The report calls for a national media literacy strategy, and recommends a four-part approach to strengthening and standardising civics education.

This final report follows the Joint Standing Committee on Electoral Matters’ interim report on the conduct of the 2022 election, tabled in June 2023.

In this interim report, the Committee considers a number of matters pertaining to the 2022 federal election, including reforms to donation laws and the funding of elections, truth in political advertising laws, and encouraging increased electoral participation and lifting enfranchisement of First Nations People.

This committee report recommends that the Referendum (Machinery Provisions) Amendment Bill 2022 be passed, if amendments are made to strengthen enfranchisement and participation in the referendum, particularly of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, and clear, factual and impartial information is made accessible to all voters.

This inquiry provided the committee with an opportunity to examine Australia’s electoral preparedness during challenging circumstances, and whether there is flexibility within the Commonwealth Electoral Act 1918 (Electoral Act) to adapt to these challenges.