Public interest journalism relies on access to information, to ensure powerful institutions and individuals are held to account.

But there are now important questions being raised in Victoria about the barriers to news reporting.

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Are court suppression orders, restricted access to court documents, a dysfunctional Freedom of Information system, and barriers to accessing sources justified?

How much do we really know? What is hidden from sight? And crucially, what impact do these impediments have on the essential role of public journalism?

Join the Melbourne Press Club for this special event, featuring the launch of a groundbreaking research report from Monash University academics Associate Professor Johan Lidberg and Alicia McMillan, on the state of public journalism in Victoria.

And hear from our panel of Herald Sun Editor Sam Weir, The Age Editor Patrick Elligett and former Supreme Court judge the honourable Betty King KC about the urgent steps needed to preserve the essential role of public interest journalism.

Moderated by Associate Professor Johan Lidberg.

This is a must-attend event.

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Photograph of the honourable Betty King KC by Cameron Grayson

Event details

Date & Time
Tuesday 3 March 2026
6pm for 6.30pm start – 8pm

RSVP
Bookings and dietary requirements required by 12pm Tuesday 3 March 2026

Location
Thomson Geer board room
Level 23 Rialto South Tower
525 Collins Street
Melbourne

Cost
$40 MPC members (Become a member)
$50 non-members
$20 students
Prices include refreshments and GST

Bookings & Donations via Humanitix

Cancellations may be refunded until 48 hours before event starts

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