We are republishing this message because we agree that nothing can go ahead as long as the public messaging system is held hostage by a corporate media monopoly.
Avaaz organisation says that, "Prime Minister Gillard may finally be about to order an inquiry into Rupert Murdoch's stranglehold on our media, but insiders say she is wobbling under direct pressure from Murdoch's lobbyists. Let’s flood her cabinet members with calls today and give them the public mandate they need to take a strong stand and hold the PM steady in her decision." See also "Concentrated media ownership: a crisis for democracy" Remember, the Murdoch press wants our population to increase and is against protection of the environment and of workers' rights.
Candobetter.net does not know how true this view of Gillard is, but we certainly agree with the sentiment. It is true that Murdoch media sure does not act like a friend to Julia, so, if she knows what is good for her, she will increase Australia's media diversity and downsize the Murdoch press. But she may also rely on 'friends' of the Murdoch media - which means nearly every 'successful' mediocre politician around. They will stand in her way by protecting the Murdoch press. The extremely weak response to the recent Murdoch scandal by Australian politicians and parliament is indicative of how bad the situation is. Is there no politician left who does not kowtow to Rupert?
Avaaz suggests that you "Take a moment and call these numbers now -- the talking points below will help guide you in what to say:
Kate Ellis: (02) 6277 7630
Tanya Plibersek: (02) 6277 7200
Anthony Albanese: (02) 6277 7680"
And, how about signing this petition which has been going now for several weeks, as well? (Image: Rupert Murdoch, courtesy Rex Interstock) Sign this online petition advocating a comprehensive Inquiry into the Australian media industry. #AusPol http://fb.me/18xDXIEuv 1 day ago
Talking points
I believe that there should be a robust inquiry into Australia’s media because current regulation doesn’t protect media diversity and News Limited controls 70% of what Australians read in the news every day.
I encourage you to firmly remind the Prime Minister that she has an overwhelming public mandate to call for this inquiry -- thousands of Australians have called on her to bring this inquiry.
I believe we need a “fit and proper person” or public interest test to determine if media acquisitions are in the interest of our society.
Australia needs a balanced privacy law that protects people from invasive and ruthless journalism without stifling free speech or public interest reporting.
The concentration of media power in just a few hands undermines the heart of a democratic society -- the ability of people to access a variety of viewpoints and form their own opinions.
Remember to be polite: we’ll be far more convincing if we are reasonable and courteous. After the call share your experience with others across the country in the live chat on the right.
Comments
Greg (not verified)
Sat, 2011-08-27 05:06
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The fundamental problem with privatised autocratic mass media
Sheila Newman
Mon, 2011-08-29 00:39
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Greg W's elegant phrasing
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