$3 million boost for regional newspapers across NSW

THE state government has pledged an additional $3 million to support regional and rural newspapers in New South Wales.

This funding brings the total commitment to $6 million since the election.Minister for regional NSW Tara Moriarty said the government recognises the importance of local newspapers.

“The Minns Labor Government understands the importance of local papers and local stories particularly in regional communities,” Moriarty said.

“It is regional and rural papers that help get local issues on the agenda that would otherwise fall through the cracks.

“We understand complex barriers face these outlets, including the rise of technology.

“This funding is about providing responsible support which will ease the pressure facing regional media.”

The announcement was made at the Country Press NSW Conference and Awards of Excellence in Dubbo.

The grants will help local newspapers meet rising costs for production, operations, and content creation.

The first round of the Regional Media Fund, which closed in April 2023, provided grants to 47 newspapers to assist with digital expansion.

Country Press NSW president Lucie Peart said the funding arrives at a crucial time for regional newsrooms, which are facing significant challenges.

“This second round was a key piece of the government’s election commitment,” Peart said.

“We are grateful that this round will provide further support to regional publishers.

“Since the first round of the fund, the landscape for regional news businesses has changed; we are challenged by digital platforms and a further decline in newsrooms across the state.

“This second round of funding will provide a boost to the regional news industry and allow journalists and local newspaper publishers to keep doing what they do best – keeping communities informed and providing vital public interest journalism.”

Applications for the new funding round are expected to open before the end of the year.