Experts push for COVID-19 misinformation laws

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The rise of vaccine hesitancy online has prompted immunisation and technology experts to form a coalition Source: Getty Images

A newly formed coalition of immunisation and technology experts are pushing for new laws to tackle COVID-19 misinformation.


In a letter sent to Australian Parliament on Monday 25th January, the coalition warned that unchecked misinformation could risk Australia's COVID-19 vaccine efforts.

The warning comes as Australia approves its first COVID-19 vaccine for use.

Chris Cooper makes a living from fighting threats to democracy and society online.

As the Executive Director of Reset Australia, Mr Cooper has become increasingly concerned by the rapid spread of misinformation.

He says social media algorithms are allowing conspiracy theories about the COVID-19 vaccine to dominate the news feeds of every day Australians.

"Because the design of the platforms sends people into echo-chambers, it doesn't take just one meme to radicalize someone into believing a COVID conspiracy."

"It's the constant onslaught of vaccine hesitancy, misinformation that leads to people feeling less and less confident about the vaccine and less likely to take it up."

To hear the full report click on the audio link above.

People in Australia must stay at least 1.5 metres away from others. Find out what restrictions are in place for your state or territory.

Testing for coronavirus is now widely available across Australia. If you are experiencing cold or flu symptoms, arrange a test by calling your doctor or contact the Coronavirus Health Information Hotline on 1800 020 080.The federal government's coronavirus tracing app COVIDSafe is available for download from your phone's app store.

SBS is committed to informing Australia’s diverse communities about the latest COVID-19 developments. News and information is available in 63 languages at http://www.sbs.com.au/coronavirus

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