Electoral Legislation Amendment (Foreign Influences and Offences) 2022

# Electoral Legislation Amendment (Foreign Influences and Offences) 2022 ## What it does This law stops foreign people and organisations from spending money to influence Australian elections and referendums. It also cracks down on foreign entities creating or spreading election advertising without proper disclosure. The changes apply to the Commonwealth Electoral Act 1918, which is Australia's main election rulebook. ## Why it matters Foreign interference in elections undermines democracy by letting outside actors sway how Australians vote without transparency. This law aims to protect the integrity of our electoral system by making sure only people with a genuine Australian connection can campaign or fund campaigns here. ## Key details - **Foreign campaigner definition**: The law defines who counts as a "foreign campaigner" (detailed in section 287AA) and restricts what they can do in Australian elections - **Electoral communication rules**: Foreign entities can't authorise electoral advertising or communications without following specific disclosure requirements - **Commencement**: The law came into effect the day after it received Royal Assent (no delayed implementation period) - **Penalties**: Breaches are treated as electoral offences under the existing Commonwealth Electoral Act, carrying criminal penalties

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