A Lao delegation visited Australia from 7–13 June at the invitation of the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), meeting Australian government officials and visiting leading national media organizations to exchange experiences on media, digital communications, and information integrity.
The delegation was led by Mr. Vansy Kuamua, Vice Chair of the Commission for Information and Education, and included officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
During the visit, the delegation met with Australian counterparts and reaffirmed the strength and depth of bilateral ties, including progress under the Australia–Laos Comprehensive Partnership.
Discussions focused on Australia’s approaches to information integrity, media literacy, digital transformation, social media age restrictions, and the evolving media landscape in both countries.
The visit also provided an opportunity for Lao officials to exchange perspectives and learn from Australia’s experience in addressing challenges facing the media sector.
Mr. Vansy described misinformation and disinformation as “one of the biggest challenges we are facing at the moment,” highlighting the growing influence of social media and the rapid spread of information.
While in Canberra, the delegation visited the National Gallery of Australia, which houses significant First Nations and regional collections, including works from Laos. The group also toured Parliament House, where they received briefings on Australia’s system of government and its engagement with the media.
In Sydney, the delegation visited the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) and SBS Australia to observe how the two public broadcasters produce national news and political reporting.
Representatives from both organizations explained how they operate under independent editorial frameworks to ensure audiences have access to accurate and high-quality information. ABC also outlined its ongoing transition from traditional linear broadcasting to on-demand content, the impact of an increasingly fragmented media landscape, and efforts to equip newsrooms with digital skills.
Mr. Vansy said the visit offered valuable insights into Australia’s media and communications landscape, particularly the transition from traditional print journalism to digital platforms, including the use of audience analytics and newsroom performance tools.
He also welcomed the opportunity to learn about SBS Australia’s multilingual news model, noting that its approach to delivering content across multiple platforms in 63 languages helps ensure diverse communities have access to trusted information.
Editor’s Note: This article is part of The Laotian Times Public Diplomacy section and was contributed by the Australian Embassy in Laos. Views and information presented are those of the contributing organization.
