Senator reiterates push for banning the use of AI in election campaigns
Independent Federal Senator David Pocock has reiterated his call to ban the use of generative artificial intelligence in the upcoming federal election campaign.
Senator Pocock has posted two fabricated AI videos on social media showing Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Opposition leader Peter Dutton agreeing to prohibit all forms of gambling advertising, illustrating the advancements in AI technology.
He argues that these videos demonstrate how generative AI can be employed to deceive and mislead social media users.
“That video is fake and there are currently no laws governing the creation of such videos.
“I’m worried about the lack of urgency in protecting our democracy from generative AI.”
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Senator Pocock is urging for immediate legislation to prohibit the use of generative AI in election material and introduce laws on truth in political advertising.
These concerns are not confined to Australia, as Senator Pocock noted a rising number of instances globally where generative AI is being utilized to influence elections.
“The Australian Electoral Commissioner, in a senate inquiry I helped launch, mentioned their anticipation of similar attempts happening here,” he remarked.
“It is now crucial for the government to take action to protect our democracy and ensure that elections are contested and won on the basis of ideas, not on who can create the best deepfakes or tell the most convincing falsehoods.”
Senator Pocock and Curtin MP Kate Chaney have presented private bills in parliament for electoral reforms.
