The importance of local news has been reaffirmed by a recent report from the University of Canberra and RMIT University, highlighting that regional audiences are increasingly seeking relevant and trusted local journalism. This finding resonates with many journalists, including Megan Doherty, who has dedicated over three decades to covering stories in regional Australian media.
Community-Centric Journalism Respected
Doherty’s career includes significant tenures at various local publications, including The Canberra Times, where she has worked for the past 25 years. She expresses a deep commitment to covering stories that reflect the interests and concerns of the community rather than the broader headlines often seen in larger metropolitan papers. “I want to write about things people are talking about in their own communities,” she shared.
The report revealed that regional audiences crave more hyperlocal news, human-interest stories, and practical information such as weather updates and details on local events. According to Professor Sora Park, the report’s lead author, “Regional audiences want more hyperlocal news, human-interest stories and practical information.” Trust in local news was noted to be significantly higher than that for national or international media, especially when journalists possess local knowledge and community ties.
“People trust local news because journalists have local knowledge and tell locally relevant stories,” Professor Park stated.
This trust stems from journalists often living in the communities they report on, allowing them to understand and care deeply about the issues facing their neighbors. In the case of The Canberra Times, the goal remains to maintain relevance and provide justice to the community’s narratives.
Decline in Local News Outlets
Despite the high demand for local news, the report highlights a troubling trend: since 2019, Australia has lost 184 news outlets, with about 5 percent of local government areas (LGAs) lacking access to any local news media. This decline poses a significant challenge for communities seeking trustworthy sources of information.
Some of the most-read stories on The Canberra Times this year reflect local sentiments, addressing issues that resonate deeply with residents. These include the closure of well-known local restaurants such as INKA and Chez Freds, as well as the fate of the iconic Cube nightclub. Additionally, coverage of serious incidents, such as a hit-and-run outside St Edmund’s College, underscores the paper’s role in addressing both the uplifting and the unsettling aspects of community life.
Readers surveyed in the UC/RMIT report expressed a desire for more positive news to balance out hard-hitting stories, and they emphasized the importance of “people-centred journalism.” They want to hear the voices of everyday individuals and see coverage shed light on community issues and solutions.
While the demand for local news is clear, the report suggests an alarming shift towards social media as an alternative source of information. Many people are filling the gap left by traditional media through social networks or word-of-mouth, which could further jeopardize the sustainability of local journalism if not addressed.
Doherty points out that while the report calls for a shift towards more human-interest stories, suggesting that crime and sports coverage could be deprioritized is impractical. “If you don’t read newspapers, don’t pay for journalism, then traditional media as a source of local news is not going to be sustainable,” she cautioned.
The findings from the University of Canberra and RMIT University serve as a powerful reminder of the crucial role local news plays in fostering community engagement and connection. As the landscape of journalism continues to evolve, the challenge remains to provide the kind of trusted, relevant information that communities desperately need.
