Submission: Inquiry into information integrity on climate change and energy
Transparency International Australia (TI Australia) is pleased to provide the following submission to the Senate Select Committee on Information Integrity on Climate Change and Energy.
Corruption and integrity risks arise wherever vested interests distort public debate and policymaking. Climate change and energy policy is particularly vulnerable, given the vast financial interests at stake, the global urgency of decarbonisation, and the influence of industries historically resistant to reform.
Safeguarding information integrity is essential to protecting democratic decision-making, avoiding a further erosion of trust in governments, and ensuring Australia pursues climate and energy policy in the public interest.
This submission recommends:
- Regulate climate disinformation in digital platforms and advertising.
- Support independent public interest journalism, FOI reform, and fact-checking initiatives, recognising their role in countering misinformation and strengthening democratic debate.
- Strengthen transparency in political finance and lobbying.
- Foster international cooperation.
- Greater beneficial ownership transparency and disclosure.
TI Australia supports the Committee's work and would welcome the opportunity to appear and expand on this submission.