Independent Inquiry into Media and Media Regulation - Call for submissions
On 14 September 2011 the Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy, Senator Stephen Conroy appointed the Hon Ray Finkelstein QC to conduct an inquiry and report into certain aspects of the media and media regulation. Professor Matthew Ricketson was appointed by Senator Conroy to assist in the inquiry.
The inquiry will proceed in the following manner:
1. Advertisements will be placed in national daily newspapers inviting the public to provide written submissions on any issue raised by the Terms of Reference. The submissions should be addressed to the Media Inquiry, PO Box 2154 CANBERRA ACT 2601 or submitted at www.dbcde.gov.au/media-inquiry Submissions should be received by 31 October 2011.
2. Letters will be written to select media organisations, trade associations, journalist unions and statutory bodies seeking information and comment on specific issues.
3. The Inquiry will hold public hearings in Melbourne in the week beginning 7 November 2011 and in Sydney in the week beginning 14 November 2011.
4. Person's making a submission may be invited to appear at the public hearings. Other persons will require permission to appear.
5. The inquiry must provide its report by 28 February 2012. Its findings will be incorporated into the report of the Convergence Review which is due to be completed by end March 2012.
Further information about the Inquiry and how to make a submission is available at www.dbcde.gov.au/media-inquiry
Date: 21 September 2011
Contact: Jane Weatherley 0447 109 650
The Terms of Reference are:
(a) The effectiveness of the current media codes of practice in Australia, particularly in light of technological change that is leading to the migration of print media to digital and online platforms;
(b) The impact of this technological change on the business model that has supported the investment by traditional media organisations in quality journalism and the production of news, and how such activities can be supported, and diversity enhanced, in the changed media environment;
(c) Ways of substantially strengthening the independence and effectiveness of the Australian Press Council, including in relation to on-line publications, and with particular reference to the handling of complaints;
(d) Any related issues pertaining to the ability of the media to operate according to regulations and codes of practice, and in the public interest.
