News Media Bargaining (Administration) Bill 2026

Stage by Stage

Summaries in reported speech - not a transcript. In date order, both chambers.

1. Thursday 13 August 2026 · House of Representatives

   Second Reading

   The debate concerned the News Media Bargaining (Administration) Bill 2026, which establishes an administrative framework for a news bargaining incentive. The legislation aims to ensure large digital platforms contribute fairly to Australian journalism by linking their liability to commercial agreements with news businesses. Only one member spoke during the session, moving the motion for the bill's second reading. The debate was adjourned without further discussion or opposition being recorded in the transcript.

   Outcome: The debate was adjourned.

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2. Tuesday 18 August 2026 · House of Representatives

   Second Reading

   Members debated the News Journalism Payments Bill 2026 and associated legislation, which introduced a charge on digital platforms to support Australian journalism. Government and Labor members argued the bills ensured platforms paid their fair share and protected local, regional, and diverse media outlets. Independent members supported the principle but raised concerns about media concentration, while Opposition members called for further safeguards. The sitting was extended to allow the conclusion of speeches before the second reading amendment was put.

   Outcome: The sitting was extended to allow the conclusion of speeches before the second reading amendment was put.

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3. Wednesday 19 August 2026 · House of Representatives

   Consideration in Detail

   The debate centred on amendments proposed by independent members to ensure the News Media Bargaining (Administration) Bill 2026 adequately supports small, regional, and independent news organisations. Kate Chaney moved amendments to increase the grant pool for smaller publishers and expand eligibility, while Dai Le proposed a cap on expenditure concentration to prevent dominance by large media groups. Allegra Spender introduced amendments to clarify that collective bargaining agreements count as eligible expenditure. The Minister for Communications, Anika Wells, opposed all amendments, arguing the existing bill struck the right balance by requiring platforms to negotiate with at least eight news groups and providing enhanced offsets for small businesses. The amendments were defeated, and the bill was agreed to.

   Outcome: The amendments moved by Kate Chaney, Dai Le, and Allegra Spender were negatived, and the News Media Bargaining (Administration) Bill 2026 was agreed to.

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4. Wednesday 19 August 2026 · House of Representatives

   Third Reading
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5. Thursday 20 August 2026 · Senate

   Second Reading

   The Senate debated a package of bills establishing a News Bargaining Incentive to address the imbalance between digital platforms and Australian news publishers. The government argued the legislation encourages commercial deals while ensuring platforms contribute to journalism sustainability, with funds distributed based on journalist numbers. Opposition members supported the principle of holding platforms accountable but criticised the delay in implementation and the exclusion of AI companies. One Liberal senator opposed the bills, arguing they subsidise legacy media incumbents rather than fostering market competition. The debate concluded with the motion for second reading being interrupted.

   Outcome: The debate was interrupted before a vote was taken.

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6. Thursday 20 August 2026 · Senate

   Limitation of Debate
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7. Thursday 20 August 2026 · Senate

   First Reading
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