The Detail Policing our politicians for porkies
Mar 25, 2026
Tracey Watkins, editor and media pro who focuses on regulation and self‑regulation in advertising. Tim Hurdle, campaign manager with frontline experience of running political campaigns. David Farrar, political commentator versed in electoral law in NZ and South Australia. They discuss South Australia’s truth law, New Zealand’s 48‑hour rule, the Advertising Standards Authority, challenges with technical claims, and policing misinformation on social media.
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South Australia’s Law Lowers Campaign Temperature
- South Australia's Electoral Act makes it an offence to publish an electoral advertisement that is materially inaccurate and misleading.
- David Farrar says the law applies narrowly to paid ads and has 'turned the temperature down a little bit' in campaign messaging.
New Zealand’s 48 Hour Rule Is A Legacy Law
- New Zealand has Section 199A making knowingly false statements within 48 hours of an election a criminal corrupt practice.
- David Farrar argues the rule is a legacy from slower media days and rarely, if ever, enforced in practice.
ASA Acts Fast To Remove Misleading Ads
- The Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) provides a fast-track complaints process during elections to remove misleading adverts quickly.
- Farrar notes advertisers comply and the ASA can often decide within 48–72 hours and require takedowns or amendments.