Government Action Welcomed to Support Independent Australian News Media
A coalition of small, independent, multicultural, First Nations and regional Australian news publishers has welcomed the Federal Government’s proposed News Bargaining Incentive (NBI), describing it as a significant step toward strengthening Australia’s independent journalism and ensuring local communities continue to receive reliable news.
The coalition praised the Government for incorporating industry feedback following consultation, particularly measures designed to improve financial support for smaller and diverse media organisations.
Key improvements welcomed by the publishers include:
- Increasing the incentive loading for smaller media organisations from 170% to 200%.
- Greater funding support for regional journalists, small and medium-sized publishers, and media serving multicultural and underrepresented communities.
- Expanding the definition of eligible journalists to include freelance journalists and other essential newsroom roles.
- Establishing a dedicated grant program to assist smaller publishers, including organisations with annual revenue below $150,000.
The coalition said these reforms recognise the important role that independent media plays in serving regional, multicultural and underserved communities, helping address Australia’s growing “news deserts.”
However, the group has urged Parliament to strengthen the legislation further when it is introduced next week by recommending:
- At least 25% of all commercial deals under the NBI should be allocated to small and medium-sized publishers with annual revenue below $50 million.
- Increasing the grant program allocation from 5% to 15% of levy revenue.
- Expanding grant eligibility to include organisations with annual revenue above $150,000.
- Prioritising funding for smaller publishers that are unlikely to receive direct commercial agreements with digital platforms.
The publishers warned that, under the current proposal, only a small number of Australia’s largest media companies may secure commercial agreements with major technology platforms, leaving many independent publishers without meaningful financial support.
They argued that strengthening the grant program would help maintain media diversity, encourage fair competition, and ensure local communities continue to have access to trusted journalism.
The coalition said it looks forward to working with the Australian Government to refine the legislation and build a sustainable, competitive and diverse news media sector for the future.
