Question Time AU

Bill Debate · Second Reading

Commonwealth Electoral Amendment (Voter Protections in Political Advertising) Bill 2026; Second Reading

House of Representatives · Monday 22 June 2026

Official Hansard for this day (APH) · Read this debate on OpenAustralia

At a glance

Independent members Zali Steggall and Nicolette Boele introduced and supported legislation to regulate political advertising, aiming to prevent misleading claims and require disclosure of AI-generated content. They argued that current laws leave voters vulnerable to deception, citing examples of false signage and AI misuse in recent elections. The bill proposes establishing a standards board, enforcing an ethical code, and imposing penalties for deceptive factual statements. Both speakers emphasized strong public support for truth-in-advertising measures and criticized major parties for inaction.

Summary in reported speech - not a transcript. AI-generated, so check the official record before quoting.

How the debate unfolded

Opened the debate

Zali Steggall (Warringah) (Independent) Ind

Steggall moved the second reading motion, arguing that the bill protects voter rights from scams similarly to consumer protections. Steggall highlighted instances of misleading signage and AI-generated content used against independent candidates, noting that technology is outpacing regulation. The legislation mandates AI watermarking, compliance with an ethical advertising code, and the creation of a separate standards board to handle complaints. Steggall stated that the bill targets false factual claims while preserving robust debate, satire, and criticism.