The joint statement from players across broadcast, publishing and digital, including ABC, Nine Entertainment, Network 10 and Southern Cross Media lands as draft legislation for the News Bargaining Incentive is released, ramping up pressure on platforms like Meta and Google to strike deals or face financial penalties.
The renewed push follows Meta’s decision to walk away from local news deals in 2024, stripping millions from Australian media and reigniting calls for stronger regulation.
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Joint Statement:
The vibrancy of Australian democracy relies on the robust and open exchange of news, views and opinions. This is under threat.
If digital platforms fail to pay for the use of the news content from which they profit then journalism becomes unsustainable.
It is also in the public interest that reliable, professionally created news and information remains accessible and visible on the digital platforms used by millions of Australians.
The government’s News Bargaining Incentive (NBI) draft legislation is a critical step toward securing the future of Australian news. By prioritising commercial deals this legislation protects our democratic way of life.
It has been more than two years since Meta walked away from previous deals and almost 18 months since the government announced the NBI.
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While Google has been positive about doing deals, others need to come to the table, and all platforms need to step up.
We urge all parliamentarians to support safeguarding Australian journalism and the vital role it plays in our
democracy, for all Australians.
The joint statement is signed by Hugh Marks (ABC), Tony Kendall (Australian Community Media), Michael Miller (News Corp Australasia), Matt Stanton (Nine), Beverley McGarvey (10), Jane Palfreyman (SBS), Rohan Lund (SCA) and Rebecca Costello (Guardian Australia).
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