Friday 21 November 2025

Shadow Minister for Regional Communications and Member for Mallee Dr Anne Webster says she hopes the Albanese Labor Government’s latest funding initiative genuinely helps regional media.

Today Communications Minister Anika Wells launched the Journalism Assistance Fund (JAF), offering a potential $13,000 per annum for a full-time equivalent journalist for three years working in a local media outlet producing digital content.

“Poor support from the Albanese Labor Government has left regional media outlets desperately struggling,” Dr Webster said.

“As Shadow Minister I have been meeting with regional media representatives who explain how tough they are doing it due to poor Commonwealth investment.

“The catch is, I am very concerned that despite Minister Wells saying ‘regional communities’ in her press release’s opening words, there is nothing in the new JAF criteria to ensure funding is spent in or benefits regional Australia.  The criteria are so vague, anyone could be eligible – so I call on the Minister to clear up the eligibility so this funding lands where it is needed most.

“Forgive regional Australians for not taking the Albanese Labor Government at its word that it will invest in regional Australian when it says it will.”

The Journalism Assistance Fund will resource the production of digital content over three years, not the production of print-only publications, lifestyle, real estate, entertainment or opinion pieces.

Shadow Minister Webster encouraged regional media outlets to apply - for more information and to apply, go to: Journalism Assistance Fund | business.gov.au

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