2026 Victorian election explores the rise of a new generation of voters

Monash University and the Victorian Electoral Commission will host a free public event examining how Generation Z is engaging with politics ahead of the November 2026 Victorian state election.

The event will focus on first-time voters, their use of digital media and how online content influences their understanding of political issues. Speakers will also discuss the challenges young people face when navigating news, political advertising and misinformation.

Victoria’s Electoral Commissioner Sven Bluemmel will lead a discussion on youth participation in elections and the impact of changing media habits.

A panel of Monash University experts will join the event to explore the effects of social media, online political advertising and disinformation on young voters. The discussion will be chaired by The Age Victorian affairs editor Annika Smethurst.

The panel will include Dr Benjamin Moffitt, an expert in politics, democracy and populism; Associate Professor Yee-Fui Ng, who specialises in public law, political integrity and online political advertising; and Associate Professor Zareh Ghazarian, whose research includes disinformation challenges facing young people.

The event will conclude with a question-and-answer session, giving attendees an opportunity to engage with the speakers.

Event details

Date: Thursday, October 15, 2026

Time: Arrival at 5pm, with the discussion running from 5:15pm to 6:30pm

Venue: Learning and Teaching Building, Room 221, Monash University, Wellington Road, Clayton

Entry: Free, with a livestream available

The event aims to encourage greater understanding of how young Australians access political information and make informed decisions as voters.

More updates to come on AusNewsLanka.

Source : Press Released.