Australian media academics have raised concerns about the declining trust in professional journalism, warning that audiences are more willing than ever to consume news from unverified sources. As artificial intelligence reshapes the media landscape, experts argue that the public's reliance on non-trusted outlets is growing, threatening the integrity of factual reporting. This shift is seen as a direct consequence of the increasing availability of alternative news platforms, which often prioritize speed and sensationalism over accuracy. The warning comes amid broader discussions about the role of AI in content creation and its potential to blur the lines between verified and unverified information.