Two independent newspapers have been awarded Federal Government funding to employ a cadet journalist and help drive regional journalism in the Parkes electorate.
Member for Parkes Mark Coulton has announced that the Narrabri Courier has successfully received funding of $28,677, and the Coonamble Times has received $25,000, to boost their capabilities as important local publishers.
“Rural and regional newspapers in my electorate play a vital role as the voice of the local community. Along with other local media, such as radio, these newspapers are the central source of news for residents in these areas,” Mr Coulton said.
The grants are part of the Regional and Small Publishers Cadetships Program, under which $1.78 million has been awarded to publishers.
“It is my great pleasure to see this funding go to worthy local businesses and providers of important community news in the Narrabri and Coonamble areas.
“These cadetships will assist the Narrabri Courier and Coonamble Times to attract ambitious young people to their teams, and to equip aspiring journalists with a strong skillset.”
Minister for Communications and the Arts Mitch Fifield said 41 small and regional publishers across the country will benefit from the grants, aiming to boost public interest journalism.
“Many smaller media organisations are struggling to adapt to the rapidly changing media environment and these grants will help them navigate these challenges,” Minister Fifield said.
“The grants are important to ensure the journalism profession continues to attract Australia’s best and brightest individuals, and encourage them to live and work outside the major cities.”
Under the Regional and Small Publishers Cadetships Program, 41 successful applicants will engage 70 cadets across Australia. A full list of successful recipients will be made available online on 19 December – for more information visit www.communications.gov.au/regionalinnovation
