Labor MLC Shaoquett Moselmane called on the wider community to support the Multicultural Media Awards, which is set to launch for the first time in 2013.
“This will be the first time that multicultural and indigenous media will have the chance for this sort of recognition,” Mr Moselmane said.
“Multicultural outlets – though small in size – have a big part to play enhancing journalism in New South Wales. That’s why they need to be recognised for the work they do.”
Multicultural media in Australia has come a long way since 1848, when the first foreign-language newspaper Die Deutsche Post was published in Adelaide. It was a German newspaper aimed at connecting the local European community.
Moselmane’s announcement came at the time when the print news platform is undergoing a major overhaul, as The Age considers a major restructuring of its digital and print output. But Moselmane maintains multicultural press has an advantage over popular mastheads. “Where other outlets are struggling in a changing media landscape, multicultural publications still have a following because they cater to a niche audience.”
Mr Moselmane said that the awards were aimed at recognising and promoting excellence in multicultural journalists and community media.
“These awards will recognise the excellence of multicultural and indigenous journalists and media outlets, and seeks to promote multicultural media,” Mr Moselmane said.
Award categories will include areas such as Best Investigative Story, Best Article on Social Justice, and awards for photojournalism, radio and other media.