Should Politicians Use AI-Generated Images?

By Jean Bell

By Matt Neal

ABC South West Vic

Topic: AI Ethics

Sat 30 May 2026 at 6:30am

A politician used an AI image of a whale on social media.

In short:

A Victorian politician used an AI image of a whale, raising questions.

What's next?

There are AI guidelines for politicians, but concerns remain.

The image is of a humpback whale jumping out of the water.

The AI image was posted to mark the start of whale-watching season.

Using AI images raises a serious question about authenticity.

Should politicians use AI images at all?

Humpback whales have two pectoral fins.

'Sloppy, rushed, unauthentic'

ANU expert Andrew Hughes says AI content is cheap and easy.

Poorly made content can damage a public figure's reputation.

Using AI images can lead to disinformation and mistrust.

Dr Hughes says social media users can spread false information.

Be careful with the information you share.

Andrew Hughes says AI images can erode public trust.

The public may wonder why a politician doesn't use local artists.

Using local photos can be more authentic and engaging.

AI fails to connect with people on a human level.

Gareth Colliton is an artist and head of One Day Studios.

Generative AI takes opportunities away from local artists.

Hiring a local photographer can be more effective.

If the photos were real, they would have been shared more.

Using AI is not the best tactic for social media.

You're doing yourself an injustice when you use AI.

It cheapens your brand and loses its impact.

A surfer enjoys an encounter with a southern right whale.

Why go AI?

The AI image was used with a political message.

The post referenced a pledge to not support offshore wind development.

There was no disclaimer about the image being AI-generated.

Roma Britnell has held the South-West Coast seat since 2015.

Roma Britnell said she didn't know if the image was AI-generated.

She said her office didn't have funding for a photographer.

Roma Britnell's other posts often include genuine photos.

Political AI guidelines

Federal and state electoral commissions have AI guidelines.

There are no rules for using AI-generated images outside elections.

The AEC guidelines say politicians may choose to disclose AI use.

The Victorian Electoral Commission says AI content must be labelled.

SES AI post 'a bit of fun'

A Victorian SES unit's AI-generated image attracted attention.

The image was clearly labelled as AI-generated.

Some commenters joked about the image, while others questioned it.

The unit often posts real photos of volunteers on scene.

The AI-generated image was used because volunteers were busy.

The post was meant to be fun and not deceive audiences.

It might look like a movie poster.

It's not real and not something they'd normally post.

AI use is not part of the unit's social media strategy.

Sat 30 May 2026 at 6:30am

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