ACMA publishes fourth report on disinformation and misinformation code
Australian regulator highlights mixed progress as review scheduled for late 2025
Key points:
– ACMA releases its fourth report on the Australian Code of Practice on Disinformation and Misinformation
– Findings show updates to AI policies but a slowdown in third-party fact-checking support
– A full review of the code will take place later in 2025
The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has released its fourth report to government on the Australian Code of Practice on Disinformation and Misinformation, setting out signatories’ actions under the voluntary framework.
The report notes that platforms continue to update policies and systems related to artificial intelligence, including the adoption of industry-wide standards on content labelling and provenance.
However, ACMA found that efforts to support independent fact-checking “appear to be stalling” in Australia.
While most signatories have made improvements in reporting Australian-specific data, the number of pieces of content actioned, including removals, has fallen compared with previous reporting periods.
Investment in digital literacy programmes, aimed at improving user awareness and resilience, was highlighted as a continuing area of focus.
The latest report is accompanied by an interactive dataset, providing an overview of how commitments have evolved since the code’s introduction and how individual companies are reporting progress.
ACMA confirmed that it will work with DIGI, the code’s administrator and platform signatories to conduct a full review of the framework before the end of 2025.
Good to know: Since 2019, ACMA has also taken enforcement action against unlicensed gambling operators, blocking 1,279 sites and warning consumers of the risks of using unregulated platforms
The code, which remains voluntary, was introduced in 2021 with the aim of reducing the impact of harmful misinformation and disinformation on the Australian public. Signatories include major technology companies operating in the country.
The regulator stated it will continue to monitor compliance and transparency reporting while consulting with industry, government and civil society stakeholders during the upcoming review process.
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