AEC Launches Voter Education Push Amid Misinformation

0:00The Australian Electoral Commission is launching a big voter education push ahead of the Ferrer by election They're warning about a crowded info space full of misinformation that could shake trust in the country's preferential voting system Last federal election Ferrer saw 9.03 percent informal votes way above average This comes after a jump in in ballot ballots nationwide with new South Wales hitting the highest at 8.06 percent Minor parties and some conservatives are revving of calls to change how preferences flow Especially with a pack ballot expected in this regional see covering spots like Albury and Griffith Voters got confused recently in South Australia state poll when one nation handed out how to vote cards With just a first preference blank after that Pauline Hanson jumped on it to push optional preferential voting like a new South Wales saying folks are tired of preferences going to major Parties Meanwhile, Queensland's checking it out, but new South Wales labor wants stricter rules

1:03The AEC's firing back with clear instructions right on ballots booth handouts posters and multilingual guides Plus ads on radio social media and direct messages They're bringing back their stop and consider message to fight online fakes Staying out of the debate, but making sure everyone knows how to vote right? Experts back the system saying it lets people vote true without tactical games Though informal rates run higher in rural spots and among new migrants With all eyes on this by-election It'll really test if voters stay sharp amid the noise and keep the process solid I'm Cory with the story and you've been listening to Sydney news today AI powered local news