Misinformation and disinformation pose a threat to the safety and wellbeing of Australians, as well as to our democracy, society and economy.
On 12 September 2024, the Minister for Communications introduced the Communications Legislation Amendment (Combatting Misinformation and Disinformation) Bill 2024 into the Parliament.
In June 2023, the Minister for Communications released an exposure draft Bill for public consultation on new laws to provide the independent regulator, the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA), with powers to combat online misinformation and disinformation.
This Bill was informed by the public consultation which has been an important opportunity for industry and the wider Australian community to have their say on key aspects of the Bill and to ensure it meets community expectations.
For a short explanation of some of the Bill's key elements, please see the fact sheet for the Bill.