Community & Business
30 March, 2026
Journalism Investment Multiplies
A targeted investment from the Federal Government has made a real impact on regional news, according to a survey of regional publishers.
Country Press Australia (CPA), the peak body representing more than 240 independent newspapers, has praised the Federal Government, and in particular Minister for Communications Anika Wells, for delivering a carefully targeted investment that is strengthening the future of regional news across Australia through the Journalism Assistance Fund.
CPA President Damian Morgan said the $13,000 per journalist support had proven to be one of the most effective policy measures in sustaining public interest journalism in regional communities.
“This is a clear example of government getting policy right,” Mr Morgan said.
“By directing funding specifically to journalists, the Government has ensured every dollar goes to producing trusted local news. It is both efficient and well targeted, while also creating a strong multiplier effect.”
Mr Morgan said the initiative demonstrated how a relatively modest investment can be leveraged by independent regional publishers to sustain newsroom jobs, as well as downstream roles such as advertising, sales, design, administration, and support for third-party businesses such as newsagents and logistics providers.
“Journalism is the engine room of our business, but it is also vital to the community in many ways. Our journalism drives subscriptions, underpins advertising, and supports broader publishing operations, while also serving as a critical community service.”
“We estimate the $13,000 investment per journalist delivers a multiplier of three to four times that amount across regional news businesses.
This funding doesn’t just support a role — it helps sustain a local news ecosystem.
By funding the central product — journalism — it sustains advertising, design, administration, and logistics, while also keeping local advertising options alive for small businesses.”
