New findings from a federal inquiry confirm what communities already know: local and independent news outlets are some of the most trusted sources we have. They play a critical role in cutting through misleading information and helping people understand what big issues mean on the ground.
Evidence submitted by LINA was included in the report from the inquiry into information integrity on climate and energy released in March.
Key takeaways from the report include:
“Recommendation 5: The committee recommends the Australian Government continue to provide funding support for regional and independent media outlets.
“…This point was underscored by the Local & Independent News Association (LINA), which noted that local news publishers are highly trusted by their communities, with audiences five times more likely to visit a local news website than Google or Facebook for local news, and almost 10 times more likely to visit a local newspaper website than a local council website for news and information. LINA pointed to the Illawarra Flame as an example of the critical role played by local and independent news organisations in providing accurate information and countering mis/disinformation within local communities.”
“…Similarly, LINA suggested introducing a ‘minimum government advertising spend specifically directed to locally produced and distributed news publications’. LINA also proposed that the Australian Government support development of a not-for-profit news sector by enabling news organisations that produce public interest journalism to be eligible for deductible gift recipient status.
“Funding and support to provide training on climate change for journalists and media organisations, as well as grant and other funding to support local, public-interest journalism and factual climate change coverage were also proposed as possible solutions.
“Evidence presented to the inquiry was strong and consistent that a robust and healthy local news and independent media sector is critical to combatting information integrity deficits such as dis and misinformation. Local media outlets are often some of the most trusted information sources, particularly in relation to renewable energy development and climate change. While these publications are often some of the most trusted sources of information, due to a multitude of pressures, local and independent media publications are struggling to remain viable and need urgent assistance.”
Read more about the Illawarra Flame’s debunking of wind-farm misinformation.
