Truth, trust and the algorithm: can democracy keep up?

Truth, trust and the algorithm: can democracy keep up?

Author: ANU National Security College April 16, 2026 Duration: 38:14

How are everyday Australians experiencing misinformation in their daily lives, and why does it feel increasingly overwhelming?

How are platforms and algorithms shaping what we see? What impact is this having on trust in institutions, political decision-making and social cohesion?

What does a healthy democratic information space look like?

 

In this episode, Tanya Notley and Ika Trijsburg join Sally Bulkeley in conversation to explore the convergence of misinformation, media literacy and democratic resilience.

 

Dr Tanya Notley is Professor in the School of Arts and Institute for Culture and Society at Western Sydney University, and a leading expert in digital inclusion and media literacy. She is a founding member of the Australian Media Literacy Alliance.

Ika Trijsburg is Director of Urban Analytics at the ANU Institute for Infrastructure and Society and Head of Democracy and Diplomacy at the Municipal Association of Victoria. She leads the Disinformation in the City project across five Australian universities.

Sally Bulkeley is the former Deputy Head of the ANU National Security College.

 

TRANSCRIPT


Show notes:

·     ANU National Security College academic programs – find out more

·     NSC Community Consultations Report

·     Disinformation in the City Response Playbook (2024)

·     Australian Media Literacy Alliance – media literacy resources

 

We'd love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to NatSecPod@anu.edu.au. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes.  


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Produced by the ANU National Security College, The National Security Podcast offers a deep and nuanced examination of the forces shaping regional and global stability. This isn't just a surface-level news recap; it's a forum for serious, informed discussion grounded in academic rigor and policy expertise. Each episode features conversations with leading thinkers, practitioners, and analysts who unpack the complex security landscape, from geopolitical shifts and economic coercion to cyber threats and climate-related risks. The focus is consistently on the pressing challenges and strategic choices confronting Australia and the broader Indo-Pacific region. Listeners will gain access to a range of perspectives that cut through the noise, providing clarity on how today's decisions shape tomorrow's security environment. By engaging with this podcast, you join a conversation that is both timely and essential, one that connects theoretical understanding with the practical realities of government and international affairs. The dialogue here is built on evidence and experience, offering listeners a trusted source to better comprehend the intricate dynamics of power, diplomacy, and defense. It's an ongoing exploration of what security means in a rapidly changing world, delivered through thoughtful, long-form discussions that prioritize depth and insight.
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