Online content creators at the federal budget horrified some of the commentariat. But politics and the old-guard media ignore this new breed at their peril.
The article from Crikey discusses the increasing influence of social media influencers on Australian politics, particularly in engaging younger demographics like Millennials and Gen Z. It highlights how the Federal Budget is now considering the impact of these influencers, who have become key players in shaping public opinion and political discourse. The piece notes that traditional media's reach is waning among the youth, prompting political parties to leverage influencers for outreach. Influencers are seen as more authentic and relatable, making them effective in communicating complex policy issues in an accessible manner. The article also touches on the potential pitfalls, such as the lack of transparency in influencer marketing and the risk of misinformation, but emphasizes the undeniable shift towards digital platforms as vital arenas for political engagement.