AI disinformation: what it is, and what’s happened in Australia
Using AI systems to conduct large-scale disinformation campaigns, malicious surveillance, or targeted and sophisticated automated censorship and propaganda, with the aim to manipulate political processes, public opinion and behavior.
Definition and category 4.1 from the MIT AI Risk Repository, used under CC BY 4.0.
How experts rate it
With mitigations — 7.1%The difference between the two estimates — 5.5 points
Mean probability of a catastrophic outcome by 2030 — more than 1 million deaths, or more than USD 100 billion in financial loss, or comparable civilisation-scale intangible damage. Across 272 experts who took part. How this was measured
The study tabulates 5 of its 23 figures; this one was read from MIT's published chart on 18 August 2026.
Ranks 12 of 23 rated risks. This study published no interval for it, so the position of neighbouring risks is not meaningful. Experts put the difference at 5.5 percentage points.
Rank 12 of 23 by expert-rated severity, at 12.6%. See all 23 ranked
Evidence
- Evidence
AI-generated deepfake audio of Slovak candidate Michal Šimečka spread rapidly online and undermined trust in democratic processes.
- Evidence
82% of Australians are concerned about content being altered to create misinformation, with 78% believing deepfakes could negatively impact elections.
What's been called for
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What politicians have said
“With an election just months away there is still time to put in some essential guard rails, but for this to happen we need the government to join us in making it happen.”
David Shoebridge · · The Australian
AI disinformation
“Mis and disinformation is an evolving threat and no single action is a perfect solution, but we must continue to improve safeguards to ensure digital platforms offer better protections for Australians.”
Michelle Rowland · · Parliamentary Press Release
AI disinformation
What Australians say
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What people ask
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Think Australia should act?
Your MP and senators decide what Australia does about AI. A few lines in your own words about AI disinformation is enough to tell them it matters to you.
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