The Fleurieu App is excited to be part of a new nationwide campaign led by the Local & Independent News Association (LINA), aimed at bolstering community-focused journalism in Australia. The campaign, "Our News. Your Voice," urges Australians to support local and independent news outlets, which are essential for vibrant, inclusive communities.

Australia’s media landscape is one of the most consolidated globally, putting democracy at risk and leading to the closure of numerous local newsrooms. LINA works to counter this by supporting diverse, independent voices.

Recent data from the Public Interest Journalism Initiative shows a significant contraction in Australian news production, with 157 outlet and newsroom closures between December 2019 and December 2023. Despite this, there are promising signs with 133 new mastheads, stations, or websites launched since 2019. However, many operate with minimal resources, often staffed by fewer than two people or volunteers.

LINA's nationwide fundraising drive aims to secure the future of local news by expanding revenue streams and enhancing the capacity of community newsrooms. As part of this initiative, 33 publishers, including the Fleurieu App, will participate, promoting the campaign across their digital platforms.

“We’ve just wrapped the 2024 LINA Summit in Port Douglas, where the energy of our members in working to drive change in their communities was incredible to see,” says LINA’s Executive Director, Claire Stuchbery. “It’s critical that discussions around important events and issues in the public discourse are nuanced with as many different perspectives as possible. Independent and local media outlets produce this type of coverage for their communities. It’s therefore vital that these media organisations are supported to be sustainable and continue to thrive as an essential, functional part of our democratic society.”

Your donation to the Fleurieu App this week will be doubled, thanks to matching philanthropic supporters. This generous support will directly enhance our ability to continue providing high-quality, independent news that reflects the interests and needs of our community.

Support the Fleurieu App today and help us keep your local news thriving.

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Thank you for championing local journalism.