Sheed achieves victory for regional newspapers

Independent Member for Shepparton District Suzanna Sheed has brought about a change in the Labor Government’s direction to slash government spending on regional newspapers.

The change came about as Ms Sheed questioned the Premier Dan Andrews about Labor’s
attempt to remove the government’s requirement to place public notices in local newspapers and instead use an online platform to host such information.

Mr Andrews said thanks to the advocacy of Ms Sheed and others the government would make an amendment to the Regulatory Legislation Amendment (Reform) Bill 2021.

The amendment will retain the requirement to publish public notices in regional newspapers. This will ensure the government notices required under legislation such as those relating to permits, approvals, licenses, and many other matters will continue to be published.

Ms Sheed said today’s move by the Labor Government proved the effectiveness of independents in the Victorian Parliament and gave credit to the premier for listening to important regional issues.

“With the stroke of a pen the government could have wiped out the requirement to publish public notices in our local newspapers,” Ms Sheed said.

“The continuing loss of advertising has contributed to the closure of many newspapers and if this bill passed unamended, it could have been the last straw for many more.

“It is vital that public notices are accessible to everyone, especially in regional areas where such notices can have great impact on the community.

“I moved an amendment in Legislative Assembly when the bill was first introduced but this was unsuccessful.

“Together with other independents, I worked hard to persuade the government to make the necessary amendment, and today Mr Andrews heard our calls.”

ENDS

Media contact
Elaine Cooney 0447 820 466│elaine.cooney@parliament.vic.gov.au

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