Law changes to keep journo sources confidential

The State Government has introduced the Evidence Amendment Bill to protect journalists from prosecution for withholding their sources in court.

The bill follows federal laws that provide anonymity for journalists’ sources and is part of a bipartisan relationship between the NSW Liberal and Greens parties forcing state support for the legislation.

Greens Member of Parliament for Balmain, Jamie Parker spoke of his support for the new bill.

“Journalists often receive confidential information from those who wish to expose official misconduct but are not willing to speak publically.”

“It is essential for a free press that journalists are able to protect these sources and report on the information they have gathered,” he said.

The NSW Greens MLC David Shoebridge introduced the legislation to parliament and is impressed with the State Governments reaction to the bill.

“It would have been easier for the government to simply support the Greens Private Members Bill but I am pleased they are now taking up this initiative and moving to reform NSW laws,” he said.

The Bill which is likely to gain Royal Ascent will mean that neither journalists or their employers are compelled to answer questions or give evidence against a whistleblower in court.

Jonathan Este, Director of Communications for Media Alliance says the organisation worked in close coalition with media organisations such as Fairfax and the ABC to lobby the Government for reform.

“The new legislation is vitally important and is a major issue for journalists who have gone to prison for defending the code of ethics,” said Mr Este.

“The public has a right to know about official conduct but whistleblowers won’t go public if they are concerned about losing their jobs.”

Mr Este said the new legislation brings Australia into line with the UK and United States who have protection laws for journalists but wants to see the legislation go further.

“We are still waiting for laws to protect whistleblowers. It is very well to protect journalists but without similar laws whistleblowers won’t go public,” he said.

The Bill is currently under Amendment in the House of Representatives with proposed laws attached to broaden protection for bloggers.

“The Greens will look closely at the Government’s legislation and if necessary move amendments to ensure journalists, including online bloggers and writers can protect their sources from an intrusive Government,” Mr Shoebridge said.

By James Jooste