Additional funding to get accurate information to Indigenous Australians

Media release - Minister Wyatt

Getting critical information out to all Australians through credible sources during the COVID-19 pandemic will help save lives.

First Nations Media Australia (FNMA) plays a valuable role in informing and communicating with Indigenous communities and will receive an additional $234,500 this financial year to support their contribution to limiting the spread of the virus.

Minister for Indigenous Australians, the Hon Ken Wyatt AM, MP, said the funding will help the peak body of the Indigenous broadcasting and media sector to extend their production and transmission of health and safety messages that connect and resonate with local audiences.

“First Nations Media is a critical link into both urban and remote communities and a valued partner of Government to distribute important health information,” Minister Wyatt said.

“FNMA are addressing local issues, concerns and correcting misinformation by translating and interpreting Government messaging so it is best understood by their audiences no matter where they live.

“This funding will increase their capacity to continue to support the whole of Government effort led by the Department of Health to ensure all Australians know how to protect themselves and their community.

“It will also go towards purchasing equipment to maintain and expand essential services and develop additional tailored media materials to be delivered across a range of platforms.

“Broadcasters will use local elders and leaders with cultural or community authority to strengthen the important message of following Government advice, adopting the required behaviours and taking personal responsibility to protect our mob.”

FNMA’s Chief Executive Officer, Catherine Liddle, said the First Nations media sector is working in our cities, towns and remote communities to ensure audiences are kept informed of the rapidly evolving situation.

“We are very pleased the Australian Government has recognised through this extra resourcing the importance of ensuring First Nations media organisations are positioned to deliver accurate and impactful information to vulnerable audiences during this pandemic,” Ms Liddle said.

“These extra resources will support the vital work of our industry in getting information to communities in a way that is culturally appropriate, accessible, timely and trusted.”