The NSW Government is delivering on its election commitment to ensure the longevity of regional media, with the Minns Labor Government’s first budget to deliver a $3 million commitment devoted to advertising spending in regional and community print outlets across the next 3 years.
The new investment will be directed towards paid print advertising, ensuring communities across NSW are aware of services available to them and to provide important government updates.
This targeted spend will support regional and community print outlets to help keep their newsrooms active, allowing communities to stay up to date with local, state and national news that affects their everyday lives.
In recent years, public information campaigns run by the NSW Government have included COVID-19 and influenza vaccination reminders, as well as road and health safety initiatives.
Today’s announcement is an important acknowledgment of the essential role community newspapers play in our regional communities as a trusted voice that provides on-the-ground public interest journalism across our state.
The NSW Government has also doubled the Regional Media Fund to $6 million dollars, to better support regional media in diversifying and expanding into digital content.
Projects receiving funding include works to update news websites, purchase photographic equipment and create new channels such as podcasts or web videos for existing outlets.
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Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government Jihad Dib said:
“Newspapers remain a trusted source of local news and information for people living in towns right across regional NSW.”
“By supporting advertising in regional print publications, the NSW Government is making sure regional audiences are aware of relevant programs and support, like grants and rebates available to them, bushfire readiness reminders, and updates on local infrastructure.”
Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said:
“The $3 million regional advertising package is an important commitment by the NSW Government to support regional media, community-based organisations that work tirelessly to keep their readers informed.
“Regional publications are valued partners with the NSW Government and the additional advertising spend will ensure residents in regional areas hear of important government programs at the right time.
“We acknowledge the difficulties faced by regional newsrooms around NSW. This additional $3 million funding injection will support the vital work they do in providing the news regional residents need.”
