The government’s latest changes to the News Bargaining Incentive represent a welcome acknowledgement that Australia’s news ecosystem extends far beyond the major metropolitan media organisations.
For many years, independent publishers, regional news services and community-based outlets have argued that any sustainable media policy must recognise the essential contribution made by smaller publishers and volunteer-driven journalism.
It is encouraging to see that message reflected in the government’s revised approach.
Several of the announced changes deserve particular recognition.
The increase in distribution loadings for regional journalists, small and medium publishers and media serving underrepresented communities is a positive development, although we continue to believe a higher loading would better reflect the public value these organisations create.
Expanding the definition of journalism to include freelancers and other essential news roles is also an important improvement, as is the increased incentive available for smaller media organisations.
Perhaps most significantly, the government has adopted the sector’s proposal to establish a dedicated grant program to ensure that a share of revenue reaches smaller publishers that might otherwise miss out. That is an important acknowledgement that market forces alone will not adequately support public interest journalism across Australia.
These changes demonstrate that constructive engagement between government and the journalism sector can produce meaningful improvements. They also reflect the impact of sustained advocacy by organisations committed to strengthening Australia’s diverse media landscape.
However, important issues remain unresolved.
The most pressing is the proposed size of the grant program. Allocating only five per cent of available revenue to grants is unlikely to provide the level of support needed to sustain smaller publishers. We continue to believe that at least 15 per cent should be dedicated to this purpose, with eligibility extended beyond organisations currently capped at $150,000 in annual revenue.
There are also practical questions requiring further consultation.
The treatment of volunteer contributors and operational support roles does not yet reflect the reality of how many regional and community news organisations operate.
Journalism is a process involving editors, producers, photographers, administrators and volunteers – not simply a job title. Likewise, updated Treasury modelling would help clarify whether the revised arrangements will generate sufficient funding under the narrower charging base.
The government has taken an important step in recognising the contribution of smaller publishers.
Our task now is to work collaboratively to ensure the final design delivers on that intent. With thoughtful refinement, these reforms can strengthen independent, regional and public interest journalism for the benefit of all Australians.