The final report of Treasury’s statutory review into the News Media Bargaining Code has been released with three primary recommendations.
Treasury’s examination resulted in a number of suggestions, among which the government examine:
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In the first year of the code, more than 30 commercial agreements were reached between digital platforms, such as Google and Meta, and a variety of news organisations.
Without the Code, it is extremely doubtful that the accords would have been reached, according to the findings of the review.
Minister for Communications Michelle Rowland said the Code is one of several initiatives in place to help the Australian news media industry.
“The Code is directed at addressing bargaining power imbalances between news businesses and digital platforms while other measures, such as direct funding support for the national broadcasters, community broadcasters and regional news publishers, address other important media policy issues,” Rowland said.
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The review was conducted in consultation with Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts, the ACCC, and the Australian Communications and Media Authority, and will respond in due course.
Assistant Treasurer Stephen Jones claimed that the review demonstrates that the Code successfully strikes a balance between the negotiating strength of news media and internet platforms.
“Digital platforms must continue to negotiate in good faith with news businesses to ensure they are fairly remunerated for the news content they create,” Jones said.
Source: Michelle Rowland MP Media Releases
Jaw de Guzman is the content producer for Comms Room, a knowledge platform and website aimed at assisting the communications industry and its professionals.
