27 June 2018
The Turnbull Government is calling for applications for grants of up to $1 million to assist regional and small publishers stay at the forefront of the rapidly changing media environment.
The Regional and Small Publishers Innovation Fund will provide up to $16 million in grants per year over three years to support the growth and continuation of quality journalism in Australia.
Minister for Communications, Senator Mitch Fifield said these grants will help regional and small publishers develop new business models and practices to stay competitive.
“We need to sustain quality journalism in our regions to ensure all Australians can access quality local news that is relevant to them,” Minister Fifield said.
“The media industry is undergoing a huge transition period and regional and small publishers are feeling the pressure from new and emerging digital platforms. These grants will help relieve that pressure by providing extra funding to help them explore new options and remain competitive.”
Funding is available for projects such as purchasing or upgrading equipment and software, developing apps, business activities that drive revenue and readership and training.
The Fund will provide a total of $48 million over three years from 2018-19 to 2020-21 with the aim to enable these publishers to compete more effectively and respond to the challenges of today’s media environment.
The Fund was announced as part of the Government’s comprehensive 2017 Broadcasting and Content Reform package and will be administered by the Australian Communications and Media Authority who will run competitive funding rounds each year.
Applications for the current round of funding close on 27 July 2018.
To submit and application or find out more about the Fund visit: www.acma.gov.au/theacma/innovation-fund-for-regional-and-small-publishers