As the 2025 Australian federal election approaches, the prevalence of digital political advertising is notable, particularly through platforms like Facebook and Instagram. A study utilizing a tracking app has revealed a concerning trend of third-party political ads matching political party ads in frequency. Astroturfing, where sponsors disguise their identity to appear as grassroots supporters, is increasingly common, with examples such as the pro-gas Australians for Natural Gas organization. Such marketing strategies pose challenges for voter transparency, as formal disclosures often fail to clarify the sponsors behind these ads.
Astroturfing ads do often adhere to the formal disclosure requirements... However, these disclosures don't meaningfully inform the public on who is behind these misleading ads.
For every ad from a registered political party, there is roughly one ad from a third-party entity.
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