The Albanese government has pushed back the introduction of the News Bargaining Incentive, much to the frustration of several media figures who warn the delay is likely to seriously weaken Australia’s news sector.
The News Bargaining Incentive has been designed to encourage digital platforms to enter commercial deals with news publishers to compensate them for the news content that big tech companies use – and monetise – on their sites.
The federal government has repeatedly identified the issue as one of its key priorities over the past 18 months, and it was widely expected that the legislation would be introduced to parliament – and passed – before the five-week winter recess, which begins on July 2.
However, as reported by The Australian, on Sunday a government spokesperson confirmed the legislation would not be introduced in the coming fortnight.
“The government is strongly committed to the News Bargaining Incentive and public interest journalism,” the spokesperson said.
“We are currently working through responses to consultation on the exposure draft and are seeking to introduce the bill as soon as possible after the winter recess.”
As a result, several media leaders have expressed their frustration.
In a statement to B&T, Southern Cross Media Group MD and CEO, Rohan Lund said: “The Government is simply asking the digital platforms to pay for news content created by other companies and we encourage them to pass the NBI legislation as soon as possible.”
“Quality news is vital for a diversity of voices in a healthy democracy,” he said.
“If digital platforms don’t pay for the use of the news content they profit from, then journalism becomes unsustainable.”
Nine Entertainment CEO Matt Stanton told B&T he remained “hopeful” deals could be struck at the negotiating table.
“As one of Australia’s largest content producers and major investor in premium local journalism, Nine has repeatedly said our strong preference is for technology companies to simply come to the bargaining table and reach deals for the fair use of our commercial property,” he said.
Meanwhile, as reported by The Australian, Michael Miller, executive chairman of News Corp Australia described the delay as “deeply disappointing”.
“Every delay hits our industry hard. I’ve said previously, 2026 was shaping as a make-or-break year, and after waiting 2½ years since Meta walked away, further inactivity risks more belt tightening and fewer Australian stories – inevitably weakening our nation.”
Federal parliament breaks for the winter recess on 2 July, and return on August 11.
