This information vacuum creates a significant digital divide in voter awareness. People have to use the Internet and commercial websites to seek out the information, which means that in commercial environment entities with more funds will dominate. Search engine optimisation and paid advertising predominantly favour established major parties with substantial resources. Research shows the two major parties spent approximately $116 million (Labor) and $131 million (Liberal/National) in the 2022 election, vastly outspending community independents who collectively spent only $14.4 million. This funding disparity directly impacts online visibility and voter information access.

Australia's preferential voting system already structurally advantages the two major parties, but the digital information gap compounds this bias. Despite this, voter behaviour is clearly changing - the share of votes going to independents and minor parties has risen dramatically over the past 40 years, from around 8% in 1980 to 32% in 2022. This suggests voters are seeking alternatives despite informational obstacles.

The AEC has recognised some aspects of this problem, launching digital literacy initiatives like thes which aims to help voters navigate the "increasingly complex information environment" ahead of elections. However, these efforts focus primarily on identifying misinformation rather than addressing the fundamental issue of inadequate candidate information provided through official channels.

In an era where digital information shapes democratic participation, Australia's electoral system has not adequately evolved. The combination of minimal official candidate information, internet commercialisation favouring established parties, and diminishing independent journalism creates an environment where truly informed voting becomes increasingly difficult for the average citizen.