• Free public lecture in Bathurst by veteran ABC and SBS journalist Mr Alan Sunderland
• Lecture will argue that independent, powerful journalism is under threat like never before due to legal actions, funding cuts and political interference
• Journalists need to uphold the principles of good journalism to be recognised, valued and protected

A free public lecture at Charles Sturt University (Charles Sturt) in Bathurst on Wednesday 7 August will consider the threat to quality journalism in the era of Trump, fake news, and budget cuts.

The public lecture will be presented by former ABC editorial director Mr Alan Sunderland (pictured) and will examine the question, ‘How can objectivity rebuild trust in journalism?’.

Senior lecturer in journalism in the Charles Sturt School of Communication and Creative Industries in Bathurst Mr Jock Cheetham said, “In his public lecture at the newly-refurbished Ponton Theatre at Charles Sturt in Bathurst, Mr Sunderland will argue that independent, powerful journalism is under threat.

“Supporting quality, independent journalism is more vital than ever, including stable and adequate funding to the ABC and SBS, as recommended in recent weeks by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission.”

“Mr Sunderland retired from journalism earlier this year after a 35-year career where he worked for major publications, including the ABC and SBS, so we are looking forward to the expert knowledge he will share during the lecture.”

Mr Sunderland asserts, “Journalism is being squeezed and cajoled and pressured and threatened as never before, by legal actions and funding cuts and political interference.

“I strongly believe that it is time for governments to step up to the plate, to recognise the message that is being delivered not just by public broadcasters but by their own citizens – that they value independent public interest journalism done without fear or favour, they trust it, and they want it preserved.

“Furthermore, with rights come responsibilities; if journalists want to be recognised, valued and protected for the work we do, then we have to clearly state and uphold the principles of good journalism.

“We have to do the job properly, that’s our side of the bargain.”

The free public lecture ‘How can objectivity rebuild trust in journalism?’ is on from 1pm to 2pm on Wednesday 7 August at the Ponton Theatre (building 1434) at Charles Sturt University in Bathurst, near car park P23, off Research Station Drive.