The Victorian Government has announced emergency support to help regional print media survive and ensure all Victorians have the information they need to protect themselves, slow the spread of coronavirus and save lives.
Many regional papers were already struggling due to the effects of drought and bushfires on local businesses and advertising. The added and significant impact of coronavirus on the economy has forced some regional mastheads to shut their doors, while others are on the brink.
“We’re giving regional papers the certainty and support they need to keep writing, keep printing and keep employing Victorians. We need to get the message out to every corner of the state – stay home, protect the health system and save lives. This investment will help us do that.” Premier Andrews said.
To help local papers survive, the Government will book one page of print advertising and digital advertising in more than 100 regional outlets each week for six months.
The immediate and reliable source of income will help these businesses – which are the public record of towns and regions throughout Victoria – get through the worst of the crisis and rebuild.
The $4.7 million package has been developed in consultation with the Victorian Country Press Association.
Rob Duffield a member of the Victorian Country Press Executive and Elliott Newspaper Group Mid-Murray Area General Manager said “This is a significant assistance announcement from Daniel Andrews and the Victorian Government which will directly assist regional news media in the Mallee and across regional Victoria. We thank the government for their swift response to our industry needs”
The advertising boost will also help the Government get the message out to Victorians that we all have a role to play in slowing the spread of the virus by staying home, protecting our health system and saving lives.
