Shadow Minister for Communications Jason Clare today said the Federal Opposition would consult with industry and the general public on proposals put forward by the Government in the discussion paper, Media Control and Ownership.
The discussion paper canvasses a number of reforms, however it does not address all of the media issues the government is discussing with industry.
Most important of these is anti-siphoning. Any changes to anti-siphoning laws will affect whether Australians have to pay to watch their favourite sporting events on TV.
The discussion paper also does not address the issue of licence fee reductions and retransmission fees.
Any media reform brought forward by the government needs to address all of these issues.
The discussion paper does flag the possible abolition of the ‘75% audience reach rule’. The abolition of this rule was recommended by the bi-partisan Joint Select Committee on Broadcasting Legislation in 2013. Labor has previously proposed the abolition of the 75% reach rule.
Diversity of media ownership is a very important part of a healthy democracy. The Opposition looks forward to considering any reform brought forward by the government.
As part of this Labor will engage extensively with industry and with the public.
Submissions to the Opposition can be made at www.jasonclare.com.au/mediaownership
Media contact: Ryan Hamilton 02 6277 4904
