Misinformation and disinformation are pressing issues in a polarised global environment, where the weaponisation of information directly threatens democratic processes. Strengthening society’s resilience to the dissemination of harmful misinformation is a key strategy in strengthening democracy’s resilience. This paper outlines the issue, recent government approaches and possible actions. 

While the Federal Government has proposed various legislative approaches, few actions have progressed and Australians remain highly concerned about the prevalence of online misinformation. 

In the absence of sufficient support for these measures, which effectively targeted specific content online, other possible policies could be pursued that address the underlying social and systemic conditions that allow misinformation to thrive. Possible actions include transparency obligations, promoting access to information and increasing media literacy. 

The re-elected Labor Government’s plan for addressing misinformation is not yet clear, but the issue remains of concern. While legislative frameworks for removing specific online content lacked support, these other actions aimed at addressing the drivers of misinformation may be considered more viable.