Sarah Hanson-Young (SA, Australian Greens) Share this | Hansard source

I understand that the government believes that they've said enough in relation to this, but the truth is that out there in the real world they haven't. Out there in the real world, media organisations small and medium and in the regions are worried that they will be overshadowed by the big players. The whole point of this legislation is to ensure there is a power rebalance to make sure that those creating public interest journalism in this country are paid for the contribution they make. I am extremely concerned that these big global tech giants will weasel their way out of this unless we make it absolutely crystal clear that, when we talk about the ecosystem of Australia's news industry and public interest journalism landscape, small, medium and regional players play a significant role in that. All we're asking is for them to be noted and given the nod that this government also believes that they are a significant part. I don't see why the government wouldn't agree to this. It would put to bed the criticism that is coming. After all the questioning today from those of us on this side of the chamber, I must say I feel that, if the government isn't willing to put this in, it begs the question: can we really believe you? Why wouldn't you accept it? You say this is the case. Let's just put it in there.