This report summarises extensive experimental research and advocacy over 2023 and 2024. It explores how both digital platforms’ systems and Australia’s voluntary regulatory framework are not ‘fit for purpose’ when it comes to mitigating the spread of misinformation and disinformation.

There are significant gaps in Australia’s regulatory framework when it comes to electoral misinformation and disinformation served through paid-for advertising. This research demonstrates issues with platform responses to electoral misinformation served through paid-for advertising and weaknesses in platform transparency reports to the Australian Code of Practice on Disinformation and Misinformation.