LINA-Independent Newsrooms Unite for National Campaign to Support Public Interest Journalism
A coalition of Australia’s independent digital news publishers is launching a nationwide crowdfunding push, urging communities to back the future of public interest journalism.
More than 40 outlets, coordinated by the Local & Independent News Association (LINA), will take part in the week-long “Our News, Your Voice” campaign starting Sunday, 3 May, aligning with World Press Freedom Day.
LINA Executive Director Claire Stuchbery said the initiative builds on strong momentum from previous years, which collectively raised more than $330,000 for independent newsrooms.
“Public interest journalism creates informed voters, holds power to account, and strengthens communities by amplifying diverse voices,” Stuchbery said.
She highlighted a growing challenge in the media landscape: while audiences often expect free access to news, quality journalism—particularly investigative reporting—requires significant investment in time, expertise, and resources.
“News isn’t free to produce,” she said. “With the collapse of traditional business models, independent publishers can’t carry the burden alone. Community support is now essential.”
The campaign launches amid renewed national debate over media sustainability. Major outlets including ABC, Nine Entertainment, News Corp, and Network 10 have backed the government’s proposed News Bargaining Incentive an evolution of the News Media Bargaining Code.
The policy aims to address the imbalance between tech platforms and news organisations by requiring digital giants to contribute financially to the journalism ecosystem. While the original code delivered some benefits, outcomes have been uneven across the sector.
Independent publishers warn that, in its current form, the proposed incentive could unintentionally disadvantage smaller and emerging outlets. They argue that barriers to entry may reinforce Australia’s already highly concentrated media landscape.
Call for Community Support:
Stuchbery stressed that ensuring access to reliable, verified information remains a shared responsibility.
“Government has a role to play,” she said, “but individuals can also make a difference—whether through donations, subscriptions, or simply engaging with independent journalism.”
The Our News, Your Voice campaign invites Australians to contribute directly to the sustainability of local and independent media, reinforcing its role as a cornerstone of democracy and community life.
Support the campaign: Our News, Your Voice
