Australian Press Council
The Australian Press Council was established in 1976. It is an independent self-regulatory body with responsibility for safeguarding the rights of Australian citizens to be kept informed of matters of public interest through maintenance of a free and responsible press. It consists of an independent Chairman, seven public members, ten industry members, a representative of the Media and Arts Alliance, and three journalist members. It is funded by the industry. Its Constituent Bodies represent the overwhelming majority of Australian newspapers and magazines.
It meets regularly to consider and deal with complaints from members of the public about irresponsible, inaccurate or unfair newspaper and magazine publication; by conciliation if possible, and by adjudication if required. Newspapers are required to publish complaint-adjudications prominently. The Council also issues guideline statements on responsible press practice. The Chairman meets with editors regularly.
It fosters press freedom by taking independent action wherever and whenever legislation proposing new limits on the press, including defamation, privacy, freedom-of-information and anti-terrorism laws is proposed by governments, and whenever proposed administrative action will limit public access to information. It contests restrictions on open court hearings, particularly unnecessary suppression orders, and actions from any other source that threaten the public's right to be continuously informed.
For further information refer to the Council's web-site at http://www.presscouncil.org.au or email info@presscouncil.org.au