REGIONAL newspaper publishers have welcomed a State Government commitment to allocate a portion of its advertising spend to country media platforms following unanimous support for a motion by Independent MP Troy Bell.
Mr Bell raised the motion in State Parliament last week, prompted after recent legislation aimed to cut state and local government requirements to publish public notices and information in newspapers, instead publishing solely on websites.
“The importance of print media to regional areas cannot be underestimated,” Mr Bell said.
“Newspapers are not only a journal of record but a regular source of accurate and balanced news and information in the public interest,” he said.
““I cannot remember the last time I looked at a local government website, whereas, thousands of people are still reading newspapers each week. It makes sense to publish important information where the people already are.”
Both Mr Bell and Member for MacKillop Nick McBride spoke about the importance of Limestone Coast-based publishers, including The Border Watch, Lifestyle1 and The SE Voice.
Mr Bell pointed to an economic support measure in Victoria, which has supported regional print during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“At the start of the pandemic, the Victorian Government supported regional newspapers by committing a portion of their communications budget to be allocated to regional print media and they have recently
extended this contract,” he said.
“This action demonstrates an understanding of regional people and how newspapers continue to be a vital source of information for rural audiences.
“Like any other industry impacted by the pandemic, regional print deserves economic support measures to ensure its longevity.
“A regional newspaper supports far more than just journalists and sales staff. It has a trickle-down effect to delivery drivers, fuel companies, newsagents and many more.”
The Border Watch managing editor Brett Kennedy praised Mr Bell for his leadership on the issue, noting the strong support it received from regional MPs.
“It is important print media is reflected adequately in the government’s advertising spend to ensure information of importance is reaching all demographics,” Mr Kennedy said.
“While an advertising commitment helps fund regional media and public interest journalism in areas such as the Limestone Coast, importantly it ensures country residents are given the same information and opportunities to engage with government as their metropolitan counterparts,” he said.
“With Mount Gambier the second largest city in the state and our region’s strong contribution to South Australia’s economy, our residents are deserving of that equitable treatment.”
