Political influencers and online commentators are one of the major forces shaping public opinion in Australia.
But unlike political parties, there are very few transparency rules around who funds online creators, who supplies talking points, or whether lobbying groups are working behind the scenes to shape narratives on social media.
In this multi-part investigation, Josh speaks with Turning Point Australia founder Joel Jammal about lobbying, influencer sponsorships, dark money, foreign influence and whether online creators are increasingly being targeted by advocacy organisations and political groups.
Joel claims he has been approached multiple times with offers connected to political messaging and sponsorships, including from foreign-linked interests.
As more Australians get their news from YouTube, Instagram, TikTok and Facebook, questions are growing around transparency, disclosure, and who is influencing the online political conversation.
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00:00 The hidden money behind online politics
00:53 Why influencers are the new political battleground
04:01 “Have you ever been approached by lobbyists?”
11:18 Foreign influence, Zionism and political sponsorships