Missed opportunity for media reforms: where to from here

Australian Greens communications spokesperson Senator Scott Ludlam. 21 March 2013.

Regardless of the outcome of factional turmoil within the ALP, the case for reform of media regulation will become more urgent by the day, Greens communications spokesperson Senator Scott Ludlam said today.

"The process for examining these bills was deeply flawed, and can ultimately be seen as a key reason why the package failed. Key independents including Mr Andrew Wilkie should also bear responsibility for sinking the reforms by siding with the media barons instead of the public interest," said Senator Ludlam.

"The Government should go back to the principles of convergence and submit improved legislation during the next sitting of Parliament, or allow the Parliamentary inquiries it established to complete their work."

"Australia's high concentration of media ownership remains the worst in the world. The Press Council will struggle to hold its members to account. The forces of technological change and convergence continue to gather pace. The Parliament should take up these challenges sooner rather than later," Senator Ludlam said.

"The Greens remain committed to advancing the cause of media diversity and independence - two things vital to public debate and civil society."

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