AEC Investigates 47,000 Illegal Pamphlets Targeting Allegra Spender

The Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) is investigating the distribution of nearly 50,000 unauthorised pamphlets containing false, misleading, and offensive claims about independent MP Allegra Spender in the Wentworth electorate. The pamphlets, which lack any identifying authorisation as required by law, have been described by Spender as part of a negative and unlawful smear campaign aimed at undermining her and benefiting her political opponents. Spender and the AEC emphasized that such anonymous material erodes trust in the political process, with Spender specifically calling for transparency and urging her opponents to condemn the tactics. The AEC has warned that those responsible could face legal penalties and is working to identify the source of the material. While Spender suggested the campaign was designed to help the Liberal Party reclaim Wentworth, there is no evidence directly linking the party or its candidate to the pamphlets. The Liberal campaign has publicly affirmed its commitment to properly authorised campaigning.