This policy brief asserts that digital media literacy — the ability to critically, effectively and responsibly access, use, understand and engage with media of all kinds — is an essential part of civic engagement.

This article discusses the consequences of misused technology and the challenges posed by artificial intelligence (AI) to transparency and accountability in contemporary democratic socio-economic and legal structures.

In this paper, the author argues that despite the formidable challenges, disinformation is an existential threat worthy of tackling, as discerning truth from fiction is fundamental to every consequential decision societies around the world make.

This inquiry examined the nature and extent of international digital platforms operated by large overseas-based multinational technology companies—so called ‘Big Tech’— exerting power and influence over markets and public debate, to the detriment of Australian democracy and users.

This research shows that TikTok has maximised the addictive qualities of design choices and engagement strategies employed by competing social media companies, incentivising a race to the bottom between a small number of leading social media companies vying for the highest user numbers and engagement rates.