Senator Stephen Conroy has announced an independent inquiry into ways to boost the independence and effectiveness of the Australian Press Council, who regulate Australian print and online media.
The Australian Federal Government’s Communications Minister, Stephen Conroy has announced the launch of an independent inquiry into the Australian media.
Senator Conroy said the panel will inquire into the adequacy of current media codes of practice in Australia and investigate ways to strengthen the independence and effectiveness of the Australian Press Council (APC).
“Without access to a fair and balanced media… and the genuine, impartial investigation of issues in the national interest, our ability to function as a democracy will be reduced,” he said.
When interviewed on the ABC’s Radio National, Australian Press Council Chair, Professor Julian Disney welcomed Senator Conroy’s announcement, saying regulatory or legislative changes are needed to improve the APC’s authority.
“We do need more teeth, and we need to be less timid in the use of them,” he said.
Professor Disney said the APC needs greater funding from sources outside media groups, including some government funding, to bolster the council’s credibility.
“We definitely need that kind of contribution,” he said.
Former Federal Court Judge, Ray Finkelstein QC will conduct the inquiry, assisted by University of Canberra Journalism Lecturer, Dr Matthew Ricketson.
The panel’s findings will be incorporated into the Convergence Review, due to be released in March 2012.
