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AAP
AAP
Politics
Maeve Bannister

Media diversity inquiry gains traction

Independent MP Zoe Daniel is pushing for an inquiry into media ownership in Australia. (Mick Tsikas/AAP PHOTOS) (AAP)

Independent MP Zoe Daniel is a step closer in her push for a royal commission-style inquiry into media ownership in Australia.

The former ABC journalist wants a judicial inquiry with significant powers to investigate the concentration of media ownership in Australia.

Ms Daniel's motion has been listed for debate in parliament on Monday, signalling the starting point to get the inquiry off the ground.

"Australia has one of the most concentrated media environments in the world, which gives rise to an unhealthy monoculture, especially in regional and suburban areas," Ms Daniel said in a newsletter to her constituents.

"As I have said, any inquiry should include all major media organisations and examine the level of oversight of media behaviour and reporting."

The inquiry would make recommendations on broadening media diversity, particularly in rural and regional areas.

It would also consider whether watchdogs such as the Australian Press Council and Australian Communications and Media Authority are fit for purpose.

Ms Daniel has also called on the government to commit to long-term funding for independent newswire Australian Associated Press, and to establish a permanent funding source to assist emerging news organisations.

Fellow independent MP Monique Ryan has backed Ms Daniel's call for the inquiry.

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