Federal journalism fund proving critical for regional news

Regional newspaper publishers say a federal funding program has become critical to maintaining local journalism, with new survey data suggesting many outlets would be forced to cut coverage or close without it.

A survey of publishers by Country Press Australia, which represents more than 240 independent newspapers, found 98 per cent of respondents would have reduced editorial output, cut staff or scaled back operations in the absence of the Journalism Assistance Fund.

About 15 per cent said their publications faced the prospect of shutting down.

The program provides about $13,000 per journalist and is designed to support public interest reporting in regional areas, where many outlets continue to operate under financial pressure.

CPA president Damian Morgan said the targeted funding had helped stabilise newsrooms and maintain coverage in communities that often rely on a single local publication.

“This is a clear example of government getting policy right,” Morgan said.

“By directing funding specifically to journalists, the government has ensured every dollar goes to producing trusted local news. It is both efficient and well targeted.”

The survey also found 85 per cent of publishers considered the funding essential or very helpful to their operations.

Morgan said investment in journalism supported the entire publishing ecosystem.

“Journalism is the engine room of our business, but it is also vital to the community in many ways,” he said.

“Our journalism drives subscriptions, underpins advertising, and supports broader publishing operations, while also serving as a critical community service.

“We estimate the $13,000 investment per journalist delivers a multiplier of three to four times that amount across regional news businesses.

“By funding the central product – journalism – it sustains advertising, design, administration and logistics, while also keeping local advertising options alive for small businesses.”

He said the program should serve as a model for future policy.

“This initiative shows that when governments back regional journalism in a smart, targeted way, the return on investment is substantial – delivering economic, social and democratic dividends,” he said.