ABC and AAP partner in regional news content sharing – The ABC and AAP have announced a landmark syndication partnership to support local news providers and expand access to trusted and timely public safety journalism for regional, rural and remote communities.
AAP will support the ABC’s plans to share emergency-related digital articles for free by providing distribution infrastructure for participating publishers to access the ABC content, lowering barriers to critical information during emergencies.
It has been reported that since 2019 more than 200 local newspapers in regional Australia have significantly cut their services or closed, meaning fewer journalists and less original local news. With a newsgathering presence across 68 sites throughout Australia, including 58 regional locations, the ABC can support local providers and help address the problem of “news deserts”.
ABC NEWS digital articles relating to public emergencies across regional Australia will be shared with 40 selected local digital news providers on a trial basis for one year. The articles will be distributed via AAP’s Newsroom web portal, enabling streamlined access.
ABC Director, News Justin Stevens:
“The ABC and AAP recognise that collaboration across the media sector is essential to addressing the challenges facing local news providers and supporting the sustainability of quality local journalism, which is a critical part of a healthy democracy.
“At the same time we’ll enhance Australians’ access to the ABC’s essential and trusted news and information at times when they need it the most, ensuring communities remain informed during times of crisis.”
AAP CEO Emma Cowdroy:
“AAP has been distributing news to every corner of Australia for over 90 years. We are proud to support this ABC-led initiative by providing the infrastructure to deliver critical public-interest journalism to local newsrooms across the country.”
From today, news providers can register their interest in participating in the trial by emailing ABCcontentAAP@abc.net.au by Monday 25 May.
To be eligible to join the pilot, applicants must be local news outlets in regional Australia providing a reputable public news service toan established digital audience; demonstrate a commitment to public interest journalism; show a clear need for additional support in covering emergencies and public safety events; have a robust system for handling complaints; and be a member of a relevant media association.
The application process will be supported by the independent Deakin University-led Australian Local News Resilience Project, which aims to foster meaningful collaboration across the local news sector.
The pilot is planned to start in July.
Media Release – ABC
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ABC and AAP partner in regional news content sharing
