News Journalism Payments Bill 2026, News Journalism Payments (Consequential Amendments) Bill 2026, News Media Bargaining (Administration) Bill 2026, News Media Bargaining Charge Bill 2026, Treasury Laws Amendment (News Media Bargaining) (Consequential) Bill 2026; Second Reading

Chaney welcomed the intent of the package but warned it might worsen media concentration by favouring large publishers. Chaney argued that platforms could satisfy offset requirements by dealing only with major media groups, leaving small independent publishers without support. Chaney proposed amendments to mandate that a portion of platform expenditure goes to small news businesses and to increase the grant pool for independent publishers. Chaney emphasised that local journalism is vital civic infrastructure and that the legislation must protect diverse voices.

Briskey argued that the bills address the market failure where public interest journalism is undersupplied because its value is not captured by those who pay for it. Briskey explained that the new incentive closes loopholes in previous codes by applying charges to advertising revenue regardless of whether platforms carry news. Briskey highlighted that payments are tied to journalist employment, ensuring funds support actual reporting rather than just content distribution. Briskey noted specific benefits for multicultural and regional media through targeted uplifts and grants.

Scamps supported the principle of the bills but raised concerns about media diversity and the potential for increased concentration. Scamps argued that safeguards are needed to ensure small and medium publishers receive a meaningful share of commercial agreements and levy revenue. Scamps called for higher offsets for smaller publishers and a larger grant stream to support independent media. Scamps also emphasised the need for transparency, regular reporting on outcomes, and future-proofing the legislation against emerging technologies like artificial intelligence.

Coffey argued that the bills ensure digital platforms contribute fairly to the journalism that adds value to their services. Coffey highlighted the importance of public interest journalism for democracy and community cohesion, citing examples of local and multicultural media in her electorate. Coffey explained that the payment scheme is designed to support journalist jobs directly, with uplifts for regional and diverse community outlets. Coffey noted that the legislation protects editorial independence by basing payments on objective criteria rather than political favour.

McCormack expressed sadness at the decline of regional newspapers but supported the bills as an important step for the industry. McCormack highlighted the challenges faced by small publishers, including rising costs and falling revenues, and praised efforts to train local journalists. McCormack argued that government should support local print media and urged the adoption of amendments proposed by the shadow communications minister. McCormack emphasised the historical and community value of local newspapers and the need to preserve them.

Ambihaipahar argued that the bills address the negative impact of the attention economy on local journalism and public interest reporting. Ambihaipahar explained that the legislation ensures platforms contribute to the sustainability of news content they benefit from. Ambihaipahar highlighted the support for small and diverse media through targeted payments and grants, which help maintain community connection and accountability. Ambihaipahar concluded that funding Australian journalism is essential for a healthy democracy and informed citizenry.

Aldred praised the role of regional newspapers in supporting community life and holding power to account. Aldred recognised specific local journalists and publications in her electorate, emphasising their professionalism and long-standing service. Aldred associated herself with the remarks of the member for Riverina regarding the importance of regional media. Aldred briefly noted concerns about partisan funding in some media but focused on valuing established local journalism.

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Moncrieff argued that public interest journalism is essential for democracy and social cohesion. Moncrieff stated that digital platforms have disrupted the traditional advertising revenue model that sustained local newspapers. The bills introduce a news bargaining incentive, imposing a 2.5 per cent charge on digital advertising revenue if platforms do not negotiate deals. Revenue collected will fund the News Journalism Payment Scheme, with allocations based on journalist headcounts. Moncrieff noted that payments include uplifts for regional, remote, and diverse community news organisations.

Kearney presented a correction to the explanatory memorandum for the News Journalism Payments Bill 2026. Kearney asked to prolong the sitting until the Adelaide member finished speaking. This allowed the second reading amendment proposed by the Lindsay member to be voted on.

Georganas argued that a strong democracy depends on sustainable and independent news media. Georganas highlighted the financial pressure on local and regional news organisations caused by the shift in advertising revenue to digital platforms. Georganas supported the bill's market-based approach, which encourages commercial agreements between platforms and news businesses. Georganas noted that the amendment increases the charge rate to 2.75 per cent to reflect market evolution since 2021.