Channel 10 considers outsourcing news amid industry cuts

In Short:
– Channel 10 considers outsourcing news services due to rising newsroom costs and declining advertising revenues.
– Channel 9 cuts journalist roles and restructures for a digital-first approach, despite importance of print revenue.

Australia’s media industry is undergoing significant change as broadcasters respond to rising costs, declining advertising revenue and the shift towards digital audiences.

James Manning highlighted reports that Channel 10 is again considering outsourcing its news operations, an idea that has circulated internally for years.

The proposal reflects the UK’s ITN model, where a single newsroom provides news services to multiple broadcasters, offering potential cost savings.

The discussion also explored broader restructuring across the industry.

Channel 7 and Channel 9 have both announced redundancies, while Channel 9 continues its digital-first transformation through changes to newsroom operations at The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald.

Manning suggested greater collaboration between networks, including sharing coverage of routine events, could help reduce costs while strengthening local journalism.

Despite the challenges facing the industry, major live events continue to demonstrate the value of traditional broadcasters.

The FIFA World Cup has delivered strong audiences for SBS, driving growth across its television and digital platforms.

The segment concluded with a tribute to veteran broadcaster Derryn Hinch, recognising his enduring contribution to Australian journalism and the legacy he leaves behind.