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Our democracy is poorer for the local news and journalism we have lost
The Public Interest Journalism Initiative says 183 outlets have closed in five years, leaving 27 local government areas without local news.
The Public Interest Journalism Initiative reports that local news makes up 88 per cent of Australia's outlets, yet 183 closures over five years have left 27 local government areas with no local coverage at all.
News Corp alone halted around 60 local titles since 2020, significantly impacting South West Sydney where communities like Fowler now have almost no local press in their letterboxes.
Local journalism historically connected decisions made in Canberra or on Macquarie Street to daily life in Fairfield or Cabramatta; without this reporting, accountability slips and misinformation fills the void.
While platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok connect users globally, they prioritize engagement over community news, failing to inform residents about essential local council meetings.
Independent Dai in the House of Representatives for Fowler says the commitment of more than $180 million to local news is welcome, but funding must prioritize small, multicultural outlets.