Victorian govt invests in regional media

Regional media outlets across Victoria are set to benefit from state government support for newswire, Australian Associated Press.

Premier Daniel Andrews on Friday announced a three-year deal worth almost $2.7 million to help strengthen regional newspapers and radio bulletins by supporting AAP's complementary service.

"Local newspapers, radio and television outlets are vital to our regional communities, providing the range of voices and local information needed to make informed decisions," he said.

"That's why we're proud to announce further support that will help ensure the long-term sustainability of regional media outlets and jobs for journalists right across Victoria."

AAP's work underpins almost 50 regional newspapers and radio stations across Victoria, with the not-for-profit newswire filing more than 220 stories and 400 photographs each day on politics, sport, courts, finance and major news events.

Regional media outlets often rely on AAP's broad content so they can focus on local stories to keep readers and listeners informed. The agreement means AAP will also boost its news content from regional Victoria to share across the state and nation.

The newswire is committed to providing independent, factual news to support its regional subscribers, who cannot cover all areas themselves, AAP Chief Executive Lisa Davies said.

"This grant enables us to focus more on regional Victoria, plus increase coverage of state politics and policy for the benefit of all Victorians and a national audience," she added.

The grant builds on the Andrews government's $20 million regional press support package, which has propped up regional jobs and public-interest journalism through the COVID-19 pandemic.

Advertising support has been extended until the end of 2022 to help regional papers recover from the global pandemic.