BSA welcomes digital bargaining framework announcement
The Broadcasting Standards Authority (BSA) has welcomed the announcement that legislation will be developed to support commercial bargaining over the use of, and payment for, news media content online.
Cabinet has approved a proposal by Minister for Broadcasting and Media, Hon Willie Jackson, which would see the BSA administer and monitor a new bargaining framework to ensure news outlets are fairly paid by online platforms for use of their media content.
BSA Chair Susie Staley says the proposed framework is an important response to major changes in the way people consume news and media, along with shifts in advertising revenue which have disrupted traditional news business models.
“By facilitating commercial agreements between online platforms and news outlets for the use of media content online, the framework will help to maintain a strong and sustainable New Zealand media sector which is trusted and independent.
“This will help ensure New Zealanders continue to have access to a diverse range of quality news media – which is vital to supporting a healthy democracy and cohesive society, and in countering mis- and disinformation.
“With over 30 years of experience as an independent regulator and well-established relationships with broadcasters and media organisations, the BSA is well placed and excited about carrying out its proposed role in administering and monitoring the bargaining framework.
“We look forward to continuing to talk to officials, broadcasters and stakeholders as legislation is drawn up,” Staley says.
ENDS
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The BSA is an independent Crown entity that oversees the broadcasting standards regime in New Zealand. The BSA determines complaints that broadcasts have breached standards, undertakes research and oversees the development of broadcasting standards in consultation with broadcasters.
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