The Hon Michelle Rowland MP, Minister for Communications, attended the recent Sector Roundtable in Sydney to learn more about the vital role community broadcasting plays in our communities.
At the meeting Minister Rowland joined sector leaders in discussing the significant contributions of community broadcasting in communities across the country, particularly during times of crisis. She was also keen to hear how community media is supporting news and information services in regional and remote communities, as well as First Nations and multicultural broadcasting services.
The Minister reiterated the Australian Government’s support for the economic and social potential of the sector. This follows on from ALP’s election commitment announced in May 2022 to provide $12 million from 2023/24, in addition to pledging to keep community television on air for the foreseeable future, after years of uncertainty.
This commitment gives the sector the funding certainty it needs so stations can continue to support their communities with local news, emergency broadcasting and local content, including Australian music.
We are very pleased to see the Minister’s genuine interest in, and knowledge of, our sector. We look forward to working closely with her and the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts to identify a sustainable funding basis for the future.
Photo: CBF President, Ian Hamm, and CBAA President, Jacquie Riddell, meeting Minister Michelle Rowland at the Sector Roundtable.