Media freedoms - striking a balance
Speech delivered by Arthur Moses SC, President, Law Council of Australia at the Media and Communications Seminar in Sydney, 15 November 2019.
"This year, the Law Council has strongly advocated for greater protections for Australia's independent press. Not because it is for the benefit of our journalists, but because the vital work that our journalists undertake protects Australians from abuse of and misinformation by government.
A free press, that can function without fear or favour, lies at the very heart of our democracy.
It is vital to all Australians, not just politicians, lawyers and journalists. Australia's media is critical to holding government and its agencies accountable for their actions and scrutinising the exercise of power. This leads to better decision-making and a stronger democracy that respects rights and freedoms and upholds the rule of law.
Protecting our community and the safety of Australians must be the government’s priority. But our parliament is also the guardian of the rights and freedoms of Australian citizens."
You can read the full speech below.
Last Updated on 05/08/2020
Share
Related Documents
Tags
Most recent items
Law Council
Freedom of expression crucial to democracy
Law Council
AML/CTF Bill requires careful scrutiny
Law Council
Vale the late Honourable Justice Malcolm Blue KC
Trending Items
Law Council
Removal of dual regulation to reduce costs for consumers
Law Council