Combatting cyber interference in elections

THE Joint Standing Committee on Electoral Matters will hold a public hearing on cyber interference in elections. The hearing is part of the Committee’s inquiry into the 2016 Federal Election.

”Although there has been no evidence of cyber manipulation or ‘fake news’ interference in Australia’s elections to date, from international events, it is important that the Electoral Matters Committee takes the initiative and is at the forefront of investigating ways to tackle this issue before it is of concern to future elections in Australia,” said Committee chair, Senator James McGrath.

The Committee will hear from a range of experts on the use of intentional dissemination of disinformation and micro targeting to influence voters; the use of data harvesting by social media platforms and associated apps and measures to bring more transparency to social media, particularly during elections.

”This Committee is just one of many parliamentary committees around the world grappling with this issue. The Committee is watching events in other jurisdictions closely and will be making recommendations in its final report aimed at safeguarding the integrity of Australia’s electoral system,” Senator McGrath said.

Public Hearing Details: 9:00am – 12:00pm, Tuesday, 20 November, Committee Room 2R1, Parliament House, Canberra.

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