MDA Quarterly Newsletter (Oct-Dec 2023)

Message From The CEO

Budyeri kamaru (hello) from Eora Country,   

As we approach the close of 2023, I want to take a moment to reflect on the incredible journey we’ve had at Media Diversity Australia (MDA). This year has been a testament to the power of collaboration, resilience, and our unwavering commitment to fostering a more inclusive media landscape.  

I’m thrilled to share that we’ve successfully welcomed esteemed members to the MDA family, including Channel 10, Channel 9, Channel 7, ABC, SBS, The Guardian, News Corp Australia, AAP, The Daily Aus, ARE Media, Junkee Media, Private Media, The Conversation, and our educational member, the University of Sydney. Your support and dedication are invaluable as we strive for a media industry that genuinely reflects the diversity of our society.  

Our inaugural industry roundtable in July and the two subsequent working group meetings held since, have proven instrumental in making substantial progress towards our industry objectives. Going into 2024, I’m optimistic about the positive impact we’ll continue to make together. We’ve also hosted engaging gatherings throughout the year, including Chapter networking drinks and research launch events. 

MDA’s commitment to advocacy remains unwavering. In response to the Stan Grant situation, we held a Listening Circle led by First Nations voices for Indigenous and culturally diverse reporters. Our ongoing support and confidential counselling during critical events such as The Voice referendum and Israel-Palestine underscores our dedication to championing psychological safety. 

As we bid farewell to some esteemed members, namely our co-founder Antoinette Lattouf, we are excited to welcome new Board members Wayne Bergmann and Monica Attard and company secretary Amanda Martin. Their contributions will undoubtedly elevate our mission to new heights.  

MDA’s impactful projects continue to produce success stories of interns securing full-time positions, like Georgina Jelovic, who was hired as an editorial assistant with Mamamia after her MDA Media Pathways Program internship. 

Our TalentHub has expanded to include over 250 media professionals from Indigenous and culturally diverse backgrounds, connecting talented job seekers with employment opportunities. We’re proud to have facilitated several placements, further strengthening the diverse fabric of the media industry.  

Last but certainly not least, I want to express my profound appreciation to our supporters, including the Jibb Foundation, Google News Initiative, Weld Stories, Diversity Arts Australia, Western Sydney University, Bennelong Foundation, and Multicultural NSW. Your commitment enables us to continue our vital work, and we are truly grateful for your partnership.  

Please consider supporting Media Diversity Australia here as we continue to drive industry-wide change.  

Wishing you a safe holiday season and a prosperous New Year,  

Mariam Veiszadeh and the Media Diversity Australia Team

'Don't be afraid to speak your truth, and don't hold back': Summer Fellowships 2023 graduate Shazma Gaffoor shares words of wisdom

“Be brave, and be proud of your diversity – that’ll be the edge you will always have over those still searching for it.”

– MDA Summer Fellowships graduate, Shazma Gaffoor

 

Shazma Gaffoor is a journalist, wife and mother based in Melbourne. Winning one of MDA’s Summer Fellowships earlier this year as a La Trobe University student, she spent five weeks working with the Nine News team. Shazma’s latest gig is associate producer with Channel 10’s The Project.  

How was the transition from being placed at Nine News Melbourne through MDA’s 2022 Summer Fellowship to working with The Project at Channel 10?  
Nine News Melbourne had the classic newsroom you envision from the movies where journalists hustle to get their story for the day while out and about. The Project life is quite different, where the journalists source, cut, and put together everything within the newsroom. Having had a bit of insight at Nine made the transition into The Project a lot easier! 

What do you love about your role at Channel 10?   
I love how sometimes we may not have much of a story at the beginning, but some of those stories are then turned into something remarkable with the collective effort of producers, camos and editors under the keen eye of the supervising producer and CoS. Those are my favourite stories. The Cinderella effect, I guess! 

What did you learn during your MDA program that benefited your career progression?   
Because of the MDA program, I had the opportunity to see firsthand how fast-paced and busy a newsroom is, how to look at things through a multifaceted lens, and how you’re always chasing after time! 

What advice can you offer young, diverse journalists taking their first steps?   
Be brave, and be proud of your diversity – that’ll be the edge you will always have over those still searching for it. Have a tight-knit circle as a support system for those long days. Don’t be afraid to speak your truth, and don’t hold back pitching news ideas; it may just be the story that makes it to a headline. 

Media Pathways Program interns soar to new career heights

MDA welcomes the success of our inaugural Media Pathways Program, conducted in collaboration with Western Sydney University. Supported by the Bennelong Foundation and Multicultural NSW, it involved a four-part seminar series where aspiring journalists from diverse backgrounds could hone their skills, gain insights, and connect with generous industry members. The program’s culmination saw selected participants undertake internships with The Sydney Morning Herald, Are Media, News Corp Australia and Mamamia.

Congratulations to our interns Georgina Jelovic, who has been offered the editorial assistant role with Mamamia, and Jessica Cham, who is in talks for the same position with The Daily Telegraph. Congratulations to Jostina Basta (pictured above), who has been offered a cadetship with the ABC following her Sydney Morning Herald placement, and Sumaiya Chowdhure, who received a glowing recommendation from Are Media.

The BlakCast podcast network vision is a game-changer in First Nations media

MDA is proud to support the launch of BlakCast, Australia’s first network of podcasts highlighting stories of First Nations Peoples and people of colour that will feature a range of shows focusing on Indigenous communities and other Australians from marginalised backgrounds.

The BlakCast journey began with a vision from its founder, Mundanara Bayles, to amplify diverse voices, stories, and perspectives and to foster diversity and inclusivity in Australian media.

“BlakCast is paving the way for a brighter, more inclusive future where all voices are heard, and the stories of the First Nations peoples are celebrated,” says Bayles. “Through diverse storytelling, we seek to foster a deeper connection to the rich tapestry of our nation’s history and culture for audiences and content makers alike.”

The network, in partnership with ARN’s iHeart, will launch with podcasts like Black Magic Woman, Yarning Up, Curtain the Podcast, Unapologetically Blak, Meet the Mob and Coming Out Blak.

'Nine has worked to improve its employee value proposition and onboarding for people from historically marginalised backgrounds to ensure we can attract, retain and support all Australian talent': Natalia Thomas reflects on 2023

Natalia Thomas stepped into the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Lead role at Nine in May this year, where she is charged with helping the network navigate and adapt to change, improve organisational culture and enhance connectivity. Upon her announcement, Natalia said it was a “privilege to join and amplify a chorus of voices, both in and outside of this organisation who are listening, learning, taking action, making mistakes and turning up the heat in pursuit of safer, more equitable and inclusive organisations and media landscapes.”

You joined the Nine team as their Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Lead earlier this year. What have been some highlights for you so far?  
In late 2022, Nine established five ‘Communities’ – Nine Pride, Cultural Diversity, All Abilities, First Nations and a Gender Equity Community to accompany the existing Women in Technology Group. Each Community receives independent funding and is Co-Chaired and Sponsored by senior staff members. My highlight has been working with the Co-Chairs to embrace their new role as Community facilitators, build awareness for the different aspects of people’s identities and see the impact that the events, stories and initiatives have had across the business. 

What steps is Nine taking to support First Nations and culturally and racially marginalised diverse job applicants?
Earlier this year, Nine’s Talent Acquisition team members participated in training to help them recognise and challenge unconscious bias in the hiring and selection process. They have subsequently signed up to an ‘Act of Inclusion’ pledge to challenge hiring managers on Acts of Exclusion, with a reporting framework to track their progress. Our team has also been delivering unconscious bias training to hiring managers across the country and ensuring that hiring managers who participate also sign the ‘Acts of Inclusion’ pledge. Nine has done significant work to improve its employee value proposition and onboarding for people from historically marginalised backgrounds to ensure we can attract, retain and support all Australian talent.  

What strategies can diversity advocates use to create more inclusive and supportive workplaces?
Big question. The old consultant in me says that strategies will always depend on the context and maturity of the workplace. There is one step that helps to establish the foundations for complex and nuanced conversations about racism, colonisation, homophobia and exclusion, and that is finding ways and avenues to foster self-reflection, curiosity, courage and consistency. I think the foundations of this are in well-facilitated conversations, safe storytelling, truth-telling and increasing people’s exposure to individuals who have different backgrounds, histories and identities to their own.  

What outcomes are you most looking forward to from Nine’s ongoing membership with MDA?
I’ve appreciated MDA’s role in initiating and facilitating conversations about attraction and retention across the media industry. As someone new to this space, I’ve welcomed the opportunity to learn about collective challenges and shared opportunities. I look forward to seeing sector-wide initiatives to attract and foster a diverse and empowered pipeline for future and returning talent in 2024. 

Learn more about becoming an MDA Member here.

Sign up now and become a 'StoryCaster'

If you know someone in Sydney aged 18-30, who is passionate about storytelling, identifies as culturally diverse, migrant, refugee, and/or a person of colour, this is an incredible opportunity. 

StoryCasters 2.0 is presented by Diversity Arts Australia and Multicultural NSW, and hopes to empower the next generation of multi-platform reporters. 

The program offers training in one of three streams (Writing & Criticism, Podcasting and Photojournalism) plus industry talks, networking events, and a four-part masterclass series on working in media.  

Find out more and fill out your EOI today: https://bit.ly/StoryCasters-2-EOI  

Is Australia genuinely working towards a more inclusive and reflective media landscape?

Peruvian-Australian photojournalist Isabella Melody Moore has published a report about the experiences of non-white media professionals in Australian newsrooms, featuring in-depth interviews with four journalists, shedding light on their perspectives and challenges.

“In order for Australian media to authentically reflect the society it serves in its reporting, essential changes are necessary. One interviewee suggested including more non-white editors and managers, coupled with establishing specialised reporting rounds focused on diaspora or migrant communities. This could offer increased avenues for non-white journalists to contribute their lived experiences, thereby elevating the quality and authenticity of news reporting. Moreover, dismantling the racial objectivity bias stands as a pivotal step toward creating a more inclusive and reflective media landscape.”

Read the full article here.

Want to help create a media that looks and sounds like Australia?

As a not-for-profit organisation, we rely on the help of our incredible volunteers. With your financial and volunteer support, we can continue to run programs to support culturally and linguistically diverse journalists, conduct agenda-setting research, run networking events, provide practical solutions for the media industry, and much more. If you would like to make a tax-deductible donation to support the vital work we do, please click here.

About us

Founded by journalists (Isabel Lo and Antoinette Lattouf) in 2017, Media Diversity Australia (MDA) is a national not-for-profit organisation, working towards creating a media landscape that looks and sounds like Australia. We have expertise in delivering evidence-based research, bespoke programs, strategic memberships and partnerships that disrupt the status quo and pave pathways for diverse representation across Australian media.

Get in touch:

Is Australia genuinely working towards a more inclusive and reflective media landscape?

A deep dive into the experiences of non-white journalists in Australian newsrooms, featuring in-depth interviews with journalists shedding light on their perspectives and challenges.

Cultural theorist Stuart Hall’s inquiries into challenging, contesting, or changing the dominant, often harmful, regime of representation are not outdated musings, but mirror the challenges faced by non-white journalists navigating the complexities of Australian newsrooms today.

It is widely-understood that news media not only sets the agenda but frames the coverage of every issue. Goodall and Jakubowicz identified how the lack of diversity in mainstream newsrooms perpetuates the status quo, reinforcing existing organisational cultures (1994).

This absence of diverse journalists has historically led to racist discourse. The Anti-Discrimination Board of NSW (2003) prepared a report that summarised the media as perpetuating Australian racismunearthing anabundance of evidenceto support these claims.

I chose to investigate to what extent the presence of non-white journalists in Australian newsrooms is affecting the way that news is being reported. What I discovered through in-depth conversations with four non-white journalists ages ranging from 27-34 with 5-8 years of experience, were the structural inequalities they faced – all interviewees reported encountering a racial objectivity bias a pervasive scepticism that writers of colour can’t objectively tell stories about people of colour.

As one interviewee told me, ‘There is either a conscious or subconscious underlying ideathere is an inherent kind of bias.’

Another interviewee told me: ‘There is an idea that exists in all newsrooms in this country that the default storyteller is a white person, because they can somehow report on anything, and their objectivity is not questioned.

The impact of such bias included questioning choice of stories to focus on, as one interviewee told me:

There is this moment where I think, do I need to pitch this story? Does it have to be me? Or are my colleagues going to think I am biased because Im too close to the subject matter

As the child of a migrant I have witnessed structural inequalities through my own mothers struggles to fit into white hegemonic society; not being hired for any of the jobs she applied for (despite speaking fluent English), and never finding a group of white Australian friends who would welcome her in. My mother always wanted to be a journalist, co-incidentally I have become one.

I have worked as a photojournalist for a national, daily Australian newspaper, where I witnessed whiteness as an unstated reference point in the practice of journalism. My day consisted of shooting stories selected by Anglo-Celtic journalists that I did not think were accurately representing the status quo of society in that region. I stayed just 10 months in the role, then decided to quit, despite the lack of similar roles available in my profession.

My longing for the freedom to pitch and work on diverse stories stemmed from a longing to portray a more authentic Australia through my imageryan Australia that I encountered daily in public spaces, reflected in the Spanish spoken at home, the Peruvian cuisine enjoyed, and the non-Australian values passed down by my migrant mother.

This aspiration for genuine representation aligns with the findings of a recent Media Diversity Australia (MDA) academic study. Their examination of Indigenous and cultural diversity in news and current affairs TV media concluded with a stark observation:

‘The Australian media fails to represent the society they serve’ (2022), and with the 2021 Census data, revealing that almost half of Australians have at least one parent born overseas (48.2 per cent), this underscores an urgent need for improved representation.

While the study acknowledged the aspiration of 19 editorial leaders in newsrooms to better reflect audience diversity, it also exposed the significant absence of non-white journalists in positions of power, and the career barriers they face.

Despite some media entities initiating ‘cultural diversity’ programs in the hiring of more diverse journalists, perhaps in response to dwindling trust in media content (Edelman Trust Barometer, 2022, showing only 43% of Australians trust what they read and see), my research suggests this comes at a cost to non-white journalists.

Interviewees expressed an overwhelming expectation to independently manage better representations of minority groups and diasporic communities in the newsroom, a responsibility they found reductive.

Its not my job, one interviewee said, But you cant help but feel that it becomes your job. Its not our job to point it out to them. But the problem is, when we point it out to them, it falls on deaf ears.

This experience echoes the observations made by Cha and Roberts (2019) who identified that an organisation’s capacity to leverage diversity relies on its minority employees, positioning non-white journalists as ‘media interventionists’ tasked with challenging media power concentration in news institutions.

Despite efforts to enhance ‘cultural diversity,’ the burden often falls on non-white journalists to independently rectify misrepresentations across the newsroom, reflecting a systemic failure rather than a resolution as one interviewee summed up:

"It's tiring, it's really exhausting."

In order for Australian media to authentically reflect the society it serves in its reporting, essential changes are necessary. One interviewee suggested including more non-white editors and managers, coupled with establishing specialised reporting rounds focused on diaspora or migrant communities. This could offer increased avenues for non-white journalists to contribute their lived experiences, thereby elevating the quality and authenticity of news reporting. Moreover, dismantling the racial objectivity bias stands as a pivotal step toward creating a more inclusive and reflective media landscape.

Do these initiatives mark the starting point for a more inclusive and reflective media landscape?

Image credits: MidJourney Open AI (Creative Commons License)

MDA Quarterly Newsletter (Jul-Sep 2023)

Message From The CEO

Budyeri kamaru (hello!) from Eora Country,

I hope this message finds you well as we enter another exciting quarter at Media Diversity Australia.

First, I’m thrilled to announce the success of our Media Pathways Program, conducted in collaboration with Western Sydney University. This program has been a game-changer supported generously by the Bennelong Foundation and Multicultural NSW. It involved a four-part seminar series where aspiring journalists from diverse backgrounds had the chance to hone their skills, gain insights, and connect with generous industry members. The culmination of this program will see select participants secure internships in mainstream newsrooms across our media members. We are grateful to our partners and sponsors for their unwavering support in making this initiative successful.

Speaking of success, it was an honour to represent Media Diversity Australia at the Women in Media Conference. I participated in a panel alongside some of the most successful figures in the field of gender equity. Together with Sam Mostyn AO, Kate Jenkins AO, Mary Wooldridge, and Federal Communications Minister Michelle Rowland, we discussed the current shifts and the changes required to advance gender equity in media. 

Shifting gears, our NSW Chapter Networking Drinks were so much fun! These gatherings bring together members of our community in a relaxed environment, allowing social and professional connections crucial in connecting with like-minded peers and securing future employment opportunities.

In July, we held a historic inaugural media industry DEI round table, bringing together media heavyweights to commit to a collective path forward to accelerate industry-wide change. You can read our Industry Round Table press release summarising the commitments made at this round table.

Building on this momentum of the round table, we held our first working group meeting last week. We are so pleased with the industry’s appetite to continue collaborating with us to help accelerate change across the industry.

MDA is pleased to welcome two new media members, Junkee Media and ARE Media, into our fold (existing members include ABC, SBS, Seven, Nine, Ten/Paramount, News Corp Australia, AAP, The Guardian, The Daily Aus, The Conversation Group and Private Media Group). Furthermore, we’re on the cusp of launching Memberships with the PR industry at the upcoming PRIA Conference, a significant step in expanding our reach and influence.

For our talented journalists from marginalised backgrounds, remember to sign up for MDA’s TalentHub. It’s your gateway to exciting job opportunities with our member outlets, creating a more equitable media ecosystem.

As we look into the future, keep an eye out for the our panel I am moderating at the inaugural SXSW Sydney event in October, where we’ll continue championing diversity and inclusion in media on a global stage.

Please consider supporting Media Diversity Australia here as we continue to drive industry-wide change.

Happy reading,

— Mariam Veiszadeh (CEO) and the Media Diversity Team 

'Know that you belong exactly where you are': MDA Political Fellowship graduate Kat Wong encourages young journalists of colour

“Many POC journalists often feel they only have jobs because of diversity quotas or programs. But I think it’s important to see those things as levelling the playing field and to know you have worked just as hard as other journos, if not harder, to be where you are.” 

– MDA Political Fellowships graduate, Kat Wong

Katherine ‘Kat’ Wong is a recently appointed Press Gallery journalist working for the Australian Associated Press (AAP) in Canberra after serving a cadetship with the media company. After winning Media Diversity Australia’s 2022 Political Fellowship, Kat entered the industry as a passionate and motivated reporter determined to cover the perspectives of diverse young people.

How was the transition from winning MDA's 2022 Political Fellowship to becoming a full-time journalist?

“It was a whirlwind! During the Fellowship, I spent four weeks in Canberra with the SMH and The Age team. I published stories that covered things like Simpsons political memes and Australia’s best author Hugo Award nominee. Then, for the fortnight before the election, I helped out their journos from the Sydney office. 

I didn’t get a full-time role immediately, so I spent some time working in publishing, but after a few month, the AAP cadetship rolled around. I applied, and with some advice from MDA’s mentors, I was offered the role. Through AAP’s rotations, I had a little taste of everything from sports reporting to politics to breaking news. Writing many different stories and meeting people from across the news landscape was so much fun. A few months ago, as the cadetship was closing, AAP offered me a full-time job in Canberra Press Gallery, where I am today.”

What do you love about your role at AAP?

“I love working at AAP because it is such a lively job. Everyone in the office is lovely, and being a full-time journalist is one of the most fun careers I could ever imagine. I get to do something new every day, whether questioning politicians at press conferences, reporting on the House of Reps, interviewing people who have done cool things with their lives or just having incredible stories. Not to mention, it’s an incredible privilege to have thousands of people read my writing.” 

What advice would you offer young, diverse journalists taking their first steps?

“The best advice is to know that you belong exactly where you are. Being a journalist and telling other people’s stories is an immense privilege that can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially when the industry has indicated that people of colour do not deserve to have their voices heard in the past. And many POC journalists often feel they only have jobs because of a diversity quota or program. But I think it’s important to see those things as levelling the playing field and to know you have worked just as hard other journos, if not harder, to be where you are.” 

Introducing the MEDIA INDUSTRY PATHWAYS PROGRAM, a new seminar and internship series for aspiring journalists

The Media Pathways Program is a dynamic four-part series designed to provide comprehensive support to culturally and linguistically diverse students, graduates, and job seekers in communications, particularly those from refugee and asylum seeker backgrounds.

Supported by the Bennelong Foundation and Multicultural NSW and produced in partnership with Western Sydney University, the program aims to equip participants with the skills, confidence, connections, and experience necessary to thrive in Australian media.

In September, four evening sessions were held at WSU’s Parramatta City Campus, showcasing an impressive line-up of renowned journalists, presenters, and media professionals. Attendees have gained invaluable insights from these accomplished speakers as they share their expertise and experiences. 

After completing the seminars, select participants will embark on paid internship placements at News Corp Australia, The Sydney Morning Herald, ARE Media and Mama Mia.

“As someone from a culturally and linguistically diverse (CaLD) background, I’m excited to work with a non-profit like Media Diversity Australia that aims to bring about positive change and ensure that people from diverse backgrounds have equal opportunities in the media industry,” said one participant. “The Media Pathways internship would be a valuable experience as I take the next step in my career and prepare myself to graduate.”

A historic first - Australia's media leadership convene diversity, equity and inclusion roundtable

On Friday, July 14, Media Diversity Australia hosted its inaugural industry roundtable in Sydney, bringing together Australia’s media leadership and Federal Communications Minister Michelle Rowland to commit to industry-wide improvement around diversity, equity and inclusion. 

The meeting, which was held at SBS, brought together the CEOs, Managing Directors and other senior representatives from MDA member organisations AAP, the ABC, Private Media Group, News Corp Australia, Nine, SBS, Seven, Ten, The Daily Aus, The Conversation Group and The Guardian.

Some notable attendees include Nine’s CEO, Mike Sneesby, Ten’s Executive Vice President, Chief Content Officer & Head of Paramount, Beverley McGarvey, Seven’s Chief People and Culture Officer, Lucinda Gemmell, ABC’s Chief Content Officer, Chris Oliver-Taylor, SBS’s News Director Mandi Wicks and News Corp Australia’s Group Executive, Corporate Affairs, Campbell Reid.

The roundtable provided a platform for an honest and robust initial discussion around barriers to equity and inclusion and opportunities for industry collaboration. The group also started initial discussions around talent pipeline and debated the merits of uniform measurement and tracking of progress across all parts of the industry to ensure greater accountability as an industry.

Building on the roundtable’s momentum, MDA held the first follow-up, working group meeting earlier this month.

'The key to developing inclusive individuals and teams lies in fostering an environment of respect': Channel 7's Davanh Inthachanh shares key career insights

With over 20 years of HR experience, Davanh Inthachanh‘s current role as Channel Seven’s Director of People & Culture sees her responsible for driving change to develop and build a fully engaged and high-performing team.

Under Davanh’s leadership, her team has helped to guide and enhance business performance by implementing initiatives focused on employee engagement performance and development. Davanh is passionate about developing individuals and groups.

You’ve had a fantastic career spanning over 20 years. What have been some highlights for you?
“The most significant career highlights for me have been at Seven and working with our people to shift towards a more inclusive and diverse culture. This is reflected in our team composition and our policies, operations, culture, and overall mindset. We’ve made significant strides in implementing flexibility, encouraging work-life balance, and fostering and celebrating a sense of belonging among our employees, which I believe has tremendously impacted our overall productivity and success.

Seven became the first media company in Australia to be recognised as an Employer of Choice for Gender Equality by The Workplace Gender Equality Agency. The criteria for the citation were rigorous, so this is a significant achievement. Seven also launched its Inaugural Reconciliation Action Plan, cementing Seven’s commitment to strengthen relationships with First Nation employment, embed reconciliation throughout the business and provide Seven with meaningful accountability.” 
 
What strategies can diversity advocates use to create more inclusive and supportive workplaces?
“I believe the key to developing inclusive individuals and teams lies in fostering an environment of respect and mutual understanding. This involves creating safe spaces for open dialogue, ensuring that each person’s voice is heard, and actively promoting continuous learning. Practically, this is about listening to all views across the the organisation. Seven has deployed an employee feedback tool to hear from all people. It also means intentionally creating diverse teams and working groups to share diverse thinking and perspectives. Additionally, a bit of flexibility and adaptability go a long way. There isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach because we understand that everyone’s journey is unique, and we value that diversity and change does take time.” 

What outcomes are you most looking forward to from Channel 7’s membership with MDA?
“We look forward to learning from and contributing to this incredible community. We are particularly excited about the opportunities for collaboration, sharing best practices, and gaining insights from other member organisations. We believe in the power of diversity and are keen to leverage our MDA membership to entrance further our understanding and strategies for a diverse and inclusive work environment. Additionally, Seven is looking forward to working with MDA to leverage our partnership and powerful brands to remove barriers to diversity and increase the pipeline of media professionals from diverse backgrounds entering the industry.” 

'I'd be surprised if a single journalist isn't aware of the issue': Google News Lab's Uma Patel on the growing impact of Media Diversity Australia's mission

Uma Patel is the Australia and New Zealand Lead for Google News Lab, a team within the Google News Initiative whose mission is to collaborate with journalists to fight misinformation, strengthen diversity, equity and inclusion within news, and support learning and development through digital transformation.

What are Google News Lab’s key priorities? 
“News Lab works with newsrooms worldwide to support some exciting projects, that benefit audiences, the new ecosystem and journalists. There are three chief priorities: supporting diversity within newsrooms, growing journalists’ digital skills and partnering with news publishers to tackle misinformation.” 

What strengths have you brought to this role as a former working journalist? 
“I often think of how difficult my job would be if I weren’t a former journalist. The newsroom is a complex environment – there’s no one way to develop and present a story or convince your editor to publish it. It is incredibly valuable to have had reporting experience when I’m trying to figure out the best strategy to set up impactful partnerships and programs. It helps me instinctively know what’s likely to work well and what’ll be challenging, what the opportunities are and map out projects to capture them. If I had to label the top three skills I took across from my reporting experience, I’d say understanding the newsroom, communications and an ability to react in the moment, on reason instinctively.” 

Google News Lab has supported Media Diversity Australia since its inception. How do your strategic objective align with ours?
“We’re proud to have supported from the start; the conversation had barely begun when MDA was founded (I was one of its first members, in my days as a journalist) and now I’d be surprised if there’s a single journalist in the country that isn’t aware of the issue.

The GNI supports a broad range of projects around the world to support the representation of marginalised communities in the news ecosystem. We’re pushing ourselves to build fairness, inclusion and diversity standards into the fabric of every program and partnership we create. MDA’s mission aligns with that endeavour, and we’ve found our partnerships and programs impactful.” 

Why is media diversity such an important issue?
“I know from experience how useful it can be to have different experiences and contacts represented in a newsroom, but it can also be difficult to be a woman and person of colour. Audiences, newsrooms and publishers all stand to gain if the stories published come from a broad spectrum of experiences – we can only be fully informed and justify holding people to account if we understand all the angles. MDA does an excellent job of growing and working with newsrooms to do just that.” 

Simone Amelia Jordan, MDA's Director of Special Projects, releases prize-winning memoir about becoming Australia's most accomplished hip-hop journalist

Simone Amelia Jordan (centre) with Mariam Veiszadeh, CEO of Media Diversity Australia (left) and Lena Nahlous, CEO of Diversity Arts Australia (right) at the Tell Her She’s Dreamin’ launch. Credit: Kai Godeck.

We are thrilled to announce the release of Tell Her She’s Dreamin’, the Ritchell Prize-winning debut memoir from MDA’s Director of Special Projects, Simone Amelia Jordan.

Growing up on the whitewashed Central Coast in the 1980s and attending an elite school as a scholarship student from the wrong side of the tracks, Lebanese-Cypriot Simone felt like an outcast among her peers for years. Her lifeline was hip-hop, then in its golden age. Simone recognised the art form’s pro-Black consciousness from girlhood, and the rappers’ resonant words inspired her to embrace her identity and back herself.

From founding Australia’s most successful hip-hop and R&B publication to moving to New York City and interviewing the biggest stars of the time as the editor of the world’s most beloved rap magazine, falling in love and getting her heart broken; grappling with her family ties to culture; and struggling through illness and sexual grooming, Simone’s inspiring story is about defying the odds to reach for your dreams. But it is also about figuring out those dreams can change as you do.

Tell Her She’s Dreamin’ is out now through Hachette Australia. Read an exclusive extract here

Want to help create a media that looks and sounds like Australia?

As a not-for-profit organisation, we rely on the help of our incredible volunteers. With your financial and volunteer support, we can continue to run programs to support culturally and linguistically diverse journalists, conduct agenda-setting research, run networking events, provide practical solutions for the media industry, and much more. If you would like to make a tax-deductible donation to support the vital work we do, please click here.

About us

Founded by journalists (Isabel Lo and Antoinette Lattouf) in 2017, Media Diversity Australia (MDA) is a national not-for-profit organisation, working towards creating a media landscape that looks and sounds like Australia. We have expertise in delivering evidence-based research, bespoke programs, strategic memberships and partnerships that disrupt the status quo and pave pathways for diverse representation across Australian media.

Get in touch:

MDA Quarterly Newsletter (Apr-Jun 2023)

Message From The CEO

Budyeri kamaru (hello!) from Eora Country,

I hope this message finds you in good health and high spirits as we embark on another exciting quarter at Media Diversity Australia. As we continue our mission to advocate for a truly inclusive and representative media landscape, it is with great pride that I share with you the latest developments within our organisation.

We have recently been reminded of the pressing need for our work in combating racism and fostering a safe environment for diverse journalists. The “grotesque racist abuse” described by veteran Indigenous journalist (and our founding Advisory Board member) Stan Grant that escalated after her spoke on ABC about the impact of colonialism on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people ahead of King Charles III’s coronation has underscored the urgency of our efforts. It also validates the importance of our latest research report, the Online Safety Of Diverse Journalists, which sheds light on the challenges reporters from marginalised communities face and provides    recommendations for change.

In honour of Stan’s resilience and to address the specific challenges faced by journalists of colour, MDA held closed Listening Circles in Sydney and Melbourne, providing a safe space for Indigenous and culturally and racially marginalised attendees to share newsroom experiences and discuss potential solutions. These inspiring events brought together journalists on the frontlines of our struggle for media diversity. I also spoke publicly with several outlets about our critical work, with MDA’s Founder and Chair, Isabel Lo, penning a heartfelt piece

Moreover, we are thrilled to celebrate the historic appointment of Massilia Aili, an emerging reporter and proud Australian Muslim woman in hijab, to Channel 9 News. Massilia’s on-air role is a testament to our progress in challenging stereotypes and breaking down barriers in the media industry. Her presence will undoubtedly contribute to a more accurate and authentic representation of diverse voices within our newsrooms. 

Congratulations to the journalists and media professionals from First Nations and multicultural communities, including Marina Go AM and Narelda Jacobs OAM, recognised in this month’s King’s Birthday honours. 

As our Women of Colour Mentorships and Winter Fellowship wrap up their successful runs this month, I’m delighted to announce our new Media Pathways Program in collaboration with Western Sydney University (WSU). As a former refugee and WSU graduate, this program is particularly close to my heart! The initiative, supported by Bennelong Foundation and Multicultural NSW, aims to provide aspiring journalists from underrepresented backgrounds, particularly refugees and asylum seekers, with the skills and networking opportunities necessary to navigate the industry. Stay tuned for the September session information and sign-up details. 

I want to thank our dedicated team and supporters as we forge ahead. Through your unwavering commitment and belief in our cause, we continue to drive change and make a lasting impact. Please consider supporting Media Diversity Australia here.  

Please stay connected, engaged in our programs and initiatives, and together, help us work towards a media industry that truly reflects the rich tapestry of our society.

Happy reading,

— Mariam Veiszadeh (CEO) and the Media Diversity Team

‘If you can conquer limiting beliefs about who’s entitled to tell Australian stories, you’ve won half the battle’: MDA Summer Fellowship graduate Angelo Ho shares pertinent advice for young journalists of colour


“Pre-MDA, journalism was an intellectual passion I loved learning about but wasn’t sure I could thrive in.” 

– MDA Summer Fellowships graduate, Angela Ho

In 2022, Angela Ho completed her Summer Fellowship with 10 News First Perth. An aspiring multi-platform storyteller, Angela is exploring connection and influence through undergraduate studies at Curtin University in journalism and law, a digital reporting role at ABC Perth and acting as Client Relations Manager for WAUC, a management consulting charity empowering top university students to provide high-quality services for non-profits like MDA. 

What did you learn during MDA Fellowship that benefited your career progression?

“The Fellowship gave me a great way to benchmark my progress and newsroom readiness. As a student especially, it was an ideal way to test my assumptions sooner rather than later about what the industry, job, and newsroom culture looked like, enabling me to think more meaningfully about how I would want to approach a career in the media.” 

You will soon finish a double journalism and law degree. Are you leaning more towards one over the other?

“I’ve had a lot more exposure to the journalism space throughout my degree, so the next year will be about scoping out what the landscape looks like in law through public and commercial sector clerkships. That being said, I’m so grateful to be doing that exploration while working and learning from the talented team in Perth’s ABC newsroom. 

Pre-MDA, journalism was an intellectual passion I loved learning about but wasn’t sure I could thrive in. Post-MDA, I’ve grown my media confidence and appreciate there is room for cultivating CaLD potential and success – if we can overcome the mental barrier of always justifying our merit in the newsroom. Hopefully, I’ll have a clearer picture for you in a year!” 

What advice would you offer young, diverse journalists taking their first steps?

“Half the game is mental. If you can conquer limiting beliefs and self-perceptions about who is entitled to tell Australian stories, you’ve won half the battle. I was lucky to have a network of diverse, aspiring journalists through my MDA cohort and mentor Simone, so if you can, reach out to and lean on your networks. You’ll be surprised how buoying this support can be.  

Once you’re on the ground, take the time to observe the processes and workflows so you know the cadence of your newsroom. Don’t be afraid to ask for help or feedback. Try to get to know your colleagues: reporters, camos, and chiefs of staff alike.

Probably worth keeping in mind is that I’m still working on all of the above things, too! Trying not to take myself too seriously keeps me grounded when the going gets rough. The first few steps can be awkward, and bumps and stumbles are part of the process.” 

Journalist and media advisor Aarti Betigeri has great ambitions for Media Diversity Australia’s ACT Chapter

Aarti Betigeri is a multi-platform journalist and former foreign correspondent based in Canberra who brings lengthy experience to her role as Chair of Media Diversity Australia’s ACT Chapter. She works as a media advisor for the Australian Council for International Development and reports for numerous outlets, including The Lowy Institute and Monocle.

You’ve had a rich and fulfilling multi-platform career, with roles including editor, advisor, foreign correspondent and more. In which medium does your heart lie?

“I’ve been so lucky to have had the opportunity to do many different things in my career. I’m working as a media advisor in the international relations space right now, which is great and something I’ve worked towards for a long time. I do miss the creativity, though, and I’d love to balance the rational, left-brain-focused work I do now with something more creative. I’d love to do more podcasting.”

Do you take a glass half-full or half-empty approach when discussing diversity in Australian media?

“I always thought the things I’ve faced in my career were about me, and it dawned on me, after people started opening up and telling their stories, that it’s structural, that Australian media has been slow to understand the need for diversity. Every time we share our story, the walls break down slightly. I’m equally encouraged and discouraged by the way media approaches diversity. But, like in many spaces, there’s a difference between what people say and what they do. It’s a two-steps forwards, one-step back thing.” 

MDA is a small non-profit with a wide-ranging reach. What’s on your dream list of activities as Chair of our ACT Chapter?

“Some of the media industry’s building blocks contribute to the general sense of bias many people feel when working there. I’d love to see MDA, perhaps in collaboration with the union and other organisations, work on advocating for structural changes that will help create a healthier media industry in general – which would no doubt help strengthen the case for more diversity. In particular, we need a change around defamation laws; proper resourcing for independent media (I think there should be more government and philanthropic funding for it); ongoing training opportunities for workers; more support for freelancers; etc. At a local level, while it’s a good idea to help create pathways for up-and-coming diverse journalists and media workers, creating solid networks amongst current journalists from diverse backgrounds, and allies that cut across organisations and existing hierarchies, should be a focus.”

‘As the Stan Grant situation showed, there’s always work to be done’: 10 News First’s Rashell Habib shares key insights from her visit to Paramount Global’s U.S. HQ

Rashell Habib is the Head of Digital News & Strategy for 10 News First under the Paramount Global brand and the latest member of the Walkley Awards Judging Board. She started her career at News Corp, working as an opinion writer for the Daily Telegraph, a News Local journalist, and news.com.au social media manager, before an editor stint at Netflix AUNZ, then joining Channel 10. 

You recently visited Paramount Global’s North American HQ to strengthen the worldwide network relationship and share knowledge and expertise. What were your key observations when it comes to their DEI initiatives?

“Witnessing the general inclusivity and meeting with many diverse leaders was impressive and notable. Not only was the on-air talent a representation of the communities that watch them, but those that worked behind the scenes reflected the same diversity and inclusivity. Much like us here in Australian, there is an understanding that audiences that make up our viewership come from a plethora of backgrounds and content and talent need to represent that.” 

What are some critical ingredients for developing successful individuals and teams?

“It’s more about looking at the potential of people and helping them achieve that. Sometimes it’s as simple as a bit of self-confidence, while other times, it’s a matter of workshopping ideas; there’s no great light bulb moment. It’s consistent communication, inclusion in decision making and respect for a point of view that differs from your own.” 

You’ve personally supported Media Diversity Australia’s mission since its 2017 inception, and Network 10 signed on as our inaugural Member. Do you still see the need for this work to be done?

“Media diversity has improved a lot since I started in journalism, since MDA started, and even now. But as the Stan Grant situation showed, there’s always work to be done. Two steps forward, one step back.”

MDA Partner Spotlight: Bennelong Foundation

Bennelong Foundation’s Grants & Administration Manager, Liem Nguyen has worked in technology and business roles in start-ups, corporates and not-for-profits for over a decade. Passionate about sharing stories of social and cultural identity, Liem and the Bennelong team are supporting MDA’s inaugural Media Pathways Program.

MDA is grateful to the Bennelong Foundation for supporting our inaugural Media Pathways Program, What would you say are the Foundation’s key priorities?

“Providing opportunities for positive and lasting change in our community. Our granting focus areas are in Education, Training & Employment, Community Health and Wellbeing and Cultural Inclusion projects for First Nations people, Australian in migrant and refugee communities and those encountering socioeconomic disadvantage. We are also active participants in the philanthropic space and collaborate deeply with out peers to build partnerships, networks and capabilities within the sector.” 

How do Bennelong Foundation’s strategic objectives align with MDA’s?

“What we liked about the [Media Pathways] project submitted by Media Diversity Australia was that it supported young migrant and refugee cohorts and people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds with workshops to build awareness and skills in the media industry and guaranteed internship placements. We believe meaningful work is life-changing for people as it allows them to control their lives.” 

Why is media diversity such an important issue?

“We believe representation is important. “You can’t be what you can’t see,” we often hear from our grant partners and communities. Media Diversity Australia helps build the talent pipeline and scaffolding for young media students and professionals to flourish in their careers. Representation in media also allows for increased empathy in telling stories that affect our multicultural communities.”

MDA Opportunities & Events

On World Press Freedom Day (May 3), we launched the Online Safety Of Diverse Journalists report, our Australian-first research which served as a critical step towards identifying, understanding, and addressing online abuse and harassment of diverse journalists and media workers. Check out the infographic, press release and official report here


It wasn’t an easy task for MDA’s CEO and a small group of judges to choose the winner of the Media Diversity Australia award (supported by NEMBC) at this month’s 2023 Walkleys Mid-Year Celebration. The category, which honours journalists making an outstanding contributions by reporting or covering diverse people or issues in Australia, was won by ABC reporters Hagar Cohen and Raveen Hunjan for their ‘Racism allegations lead to staff exodus’ investigation.

From left to right: Antoinette Lattouf (WOC Mentor and MDA Co-Founder), Alicia Vrajlal (WOC Mentee), Angelique Lu (WOC Mentee), Uma Patel (WOC Mentor), Paula Kruger (WOC Mentor), Madison Howarth (WOC Mentee), Simone Amelia Jordan (MDA Director of Special Projects), Anushri Sood (WOC Mentee), Mariam Veiszadeh (MDA CEO). Image credit: Supplied. 

Several Sydney-based participants from our Women of Colour Mentorships gathered at UTS Startups to celebrate the culmination of the inaugural 12-month program, which Crescent Foundation, Monash University and the University of Melbourne supported. Shout out to those who weren’t in attendance: Nehal Dalgliesh, Bernadine Lim, Mibenge Nsenduluka, Ruth Brook, Shuba Krishnan, Pranjali Sehgal, Cathy Wilcox, Famida Rahman, Tanya Denning-Orman, Rhanna Collins, Rashida Yosufzai, Tania Lee and Junko Howe

Our ground-breaking Who Gets to Tell Australian Stories research was mentioned in the House of Representatives this week by the Independent Federal Member for Fowler, Dai Le MP. Our impact is far-reaching; check out Le’s heartfelt speech here

Want to help create a media that looks and
sounds like Australia?

As a not-for-profit organisation, we rely on the help of our incredible volunteers. With your financial and volunteer support, we can continue to run programs to support culturally and linguistically diverse journalists, conduct agenda-setting research, run networking events, provide practical solutions for the media industry, and much more. If you would like to make a tax-deductible donation to support the vital work we do, please click here.

About us

Founded by journalists (Isabel Lo and Antoinette Lattouf) in 2017, Media Diversity Australia (MDA) is a national not-for-profit organisation, working towards creating a media landscape that looks and sounds like Australia. We have expertise in delivering evidence-based research, bespoke programs, strategic memberships and partnerships that disrupt the status quo and pave pathways for diverse representation across Australian media.

Get in touch:

Summer Fellowships

Opportunities

Summer Fellowships 2024

GNI (Google News Initiative) Student Summer Fellowships, in partnership with Media Diversity Australia.

Open to final-year university and TAFE students OR 2023 graduates interested in a media career.

Media Diversity Australia is calling for expressions of interest from students in their final year or graduates who have completed a media and communications degree OR have experience in a news related role (e.g. a student newspaper) and are keen to get industry experience at a mainstream media outlet over the summer break.

  • The project aims to place final-year students or recent graduates in 14 media outlets nationwide.
  • The Fellowship recipients will receive a weekly stipend to cover living expenses for the Fellowship duration.
  • The Fellowship will take place for five weeks full-time: Monday, January 15, until Friday, February 16, 2024.
  • The Fellowship recipients will be mentored and supported by an MDA Mentor.
  • Fellowships will take place at one outlet for the duration of the placement.
  • Applicants can express interest in working at a specific outlet, but Media Diversity Australia and the host newsroom decide their placement.
HOST NEWSROOMS
ACT (Press Gallery)
-Australian Financial Review (*Alternate dates: Monday, Feb 5 – Friday, March 8)
-ABC News Politics (*Indigenous-identified placement)
-SBS News Politics (*Alternate dates TBC)
 
NSW
-10 News First
NITV (*Indigenous-identified placement)
-Sydney Morning Herald (audio and podcasts)
-ABC News (*Indigenous-identified placement)
 
VIC
-9 News Melbourne
-AAP (*Alternate dates: Monday, Jan 22 – Friday, Feb 23
-The Age (data journalism)
-Private Media: Crikey, Smart Company, The Mandarin
 
QLD
-The Courier-Mail
 
WA
-SevenWest Media: 7 News and The West Australian
 
SA
-ABC News
 
HOW TO APPLY
  • Applicants must be final-year university/TAFE students OR graduate in 2023.
  • Applicants will come from a First Nations or culturally or linguistically diverse background or are interested in growing diversity in Australia’s newsrooms.
  • You must address all of the following to be considered for an internship:
    In 500 words or less, please tell us a bit about you, any media industry experience you’ve had, what mediums you are most interested in working with, what stories are of interest to you, and why you should be an MDA Summer Fellow.
  • Please also attach a CV and one written reference.
  • Please attach any examples of published journalism, even if this is through your university or TAFE newsroom.
  • Applications open on Thursday, October 26 at 9 am AEST and close at 5 pm AEST on Wednesday, November 15. ENTRIES HAVE BEEN EXTENDED FOR INDIGENOUS-IDENTIFIED PLACEMENTS UNTIL 5 PM AEST ON THURSDAY, DECEMBER 7.
  • Shortlisted applicants will be contacted in late November for an interview process, and successful candidates announced in early-mid December.
  • Due to a high volume of applications received, we are unable to contact each applicant individually regarding the status of their application.
  • Questions regarding the Summer Fellowships can be sent to MDA’s Director Of Special Projects, Simone Amelia Jordan:
    simone@mediadiversityaustralia.org.

If this sounds like you, please apply now.

Applicants can apply by clicking here

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Media Pathways Program

Opportunities

Media Pathways Program

Media Diversity Australia, in collaboration with Western Sydney University, presents the MEDIA INDUSTRY PATHWAYS PROGRAM.

This dynamic series is designed to provide comprehensive support to culturally and linguistically diverse students, graduates, and job seekers in communications. The program aims to equip participants, especially those with refugee and asylum-seeker backgrounds, with the skills, confidence, connections, and experience necessary to thrive in the Australian media industry and pursue employment opportunities.

In September 2023, four evening sessions will be held at WSU’s Parramatta City Campus, showcasing an impressive lineup of renowned journalists, presenters, and media professionals. Prepare to be inspired and gain invaluable insights from these accomplished speakers as they share their expertise and experiences.

After completing the seminar series, selected participants will embark on internship placements (details forthcoming).

This program is limited to past and present Western Sydney University students.

[This program is now closed.]

Media Diversity Australia proudly upholds and promotes diversity, inclusion, and equity practices in media recruitment and workplace environments. This commitment is made possible through the generous support of our program sponsors, the Bennelong Foundation and Multicultural NSW.

Company Secretary

Careers

Company Secretary

  • Title: Company Secretary
  • Team: Board
  • Reporting to: Chair of the Board
  • Location: Online and in-person meetings (various locations)
  • Term: Minimum 2 years
  • Time required: 8-10 hours per month
  • Role classification: Volunteer (unpaid), however travel and other expenses related to the role will be reimbursed

About the Role: 

The Company Secretary supports the Board by facilitating the company’s corporate governance processes, and being primarily responsible for ensuring that the Board processes run efficiently and effectively. This includes organising and coordinating the Board’s business, and advising the Board on governance and compliance matters.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Maintain the company’s statutory registers and records.
  • Update the records held by the Australian Charities and Not-for-Profits Commission (ACNC) and the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC).
  • Advise the Board of Directors on their legal and corporate responsibilities and matters of corporate governance.
  • Develop, implement, communicate and maintain compliance policies, processes and procedures, including those relating to the Board.
  • Organise the company’s Board meetings and the annual general meeting, including preparing the agenda and papers for meetings, in cooperation with the Chair and the CEO.
  • Attend and record minutes of Board meetings.
  • Ensure company compliance with legal obligations, especially its reporting obligations to regulators.
  • Any other services the Chair or the Board requires.

Key skills and experience:

  • Experience advising Boards.
  • Strong legal compliance knowledge, including required knowledge of corporate governance (including the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth) and the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission Act 2012 (Cth)).
  • Passion for creating a diverse and inclusive society, where people of culturally diverse background (particularly people of colour) are valued, respected and have access to the same opportunities as the rest of society.
  • Highly developed interpersonal and communication skills.

How to apply:

To apply, please email alvrodas@gmail.com expressing your interest in the role, attaching:

  • A short cover letter (200 words) outlining your interest; and 
  • your CV
  • Contact details of two recent referees

Please use the Email Subject: Application – Company Secretary (Your Name)

Media Diversity Australia believes in equity and diversity in the workplace, and the promotion of a culture of opportunity. In line with our focus on diversity, applications from Indigenous Australians and people from a range of cultural and racially marginalised backgrounds are strongly encouraged.

About Media Diversity Australia 

Media Diversity Australia (MDA) is a national not-for-profit organisation, founded in 2017, to champion cultural diversity in Australian journalism and news media. Our vision is to have a media industry with full and equal participation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and non-white journalists, and those who speak languages other than English at all levels (including senior management and board positions)

Our team brings deep knowledge of Australia’s media, together with an understanding of the challenges faced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and CALD (Culturally and Linguistically Diverse) people in the industry. In partnership with others, we have a track record of delivering impactful programs.

Growth & Development Manager

Careers

Growth & Development Manager

Job Description 

  • Location: Sydney
  • 3 days a week: 1 day in CBD office and rest worked flexibly across week
  • Salary range full-time base salary of $85,000 per annum including superannuation
  • Contract role 4 months with strong view to extend based on performance and subject to funding

About the Role: 

This in exciting and unique opportunity to play a key role in MDA’s efforts to promote diversity, respect and inclusion across Australian media and society at large. Reporting to MDA’s CEO, this role will be primarily responsible for helping grow MDA’s footprint and help secure financial and in-kind funding opportunities as well other secondary roles including helping support MDA’s members and maintaining its digital presence.

With a focus on development, you will be responsible for driving revenue generation for MDA through strategic partnerships and seeking funding for existing, and new, programs. In addition, you will be responsible for seeking out opportunities for improved profitability and in tailoring partnerships to business needs.

We offer a competitive salary and benefits, including flexible work arrangements in an inclusive working environment. 

 

Key Responsibilities:

  •  
  • Management of fundraising strategy, including annual pipeline and database of prospective funders.
  • Strategic advice and support around fundraising, and other growth opportunities, working collaboratively with MDAs CEO to pursue highest ROI opportunities.
  • Overseeing management of all fundraising efforts.
  • Oversight and/or execution of other strategic and operational work as aligned with MDA’s growth strategy,  KPIs and operating plan.
  • Collaborate with CEO to refine MDA’s growth strategy.
  • Collaborate with CEO to drive revenue generation for MDA through strategic partnerships with Corporates, Business, Government, NGOs, Trusts & Foundations, High Net Worth Individuals, and others.
  • Support CEO in scoping out services for and responding to for MDA members
  • Managing the end-to-end process for grants; includes managing the development of project processes and reporting requirements to ensure a quality governance process is in place for all projects including collaborating with other team members on administrative, evaluation, and acquittal requirements.
  • Create persuasive pitch and marketing materials for proposals to prospective partners
  • Actively improve and increase involvement with existing stakeholders.
  • Monitor and report on stakeholder engagement activity.
  • Attend key industry events to keep abreast of industry developments, identifying new opportunities for MDA.
  • Develop and maintain systems and procedures to manage the business development administrative function.
  • Design digital content in line with MDA’s brand guidelines in Canva or equivalent to support growth strategy.
  • Work autonomously in a start-up-like environment, supported by the high calibre team, volunteer executive committee and board.
  • Actively participate, contributing to the team and organisational initiatives.

Qualifications:

  • Highly organised with strong attention to detail
  • Must have a genuine interest in diversity, equity & inclusion
  • Working rights in Australia
  • Marketing/comms skills preferred
  • A keen interest or background, in Journalism preferred

Media Diversity Australia believes in equity and diversity in the workplace, and the promotion of a culture of opportunity. In line with our focus on diversity, applications from Indigenous Australians and people from a range of cultural and racially marginalised backgrounds are strongly encouraged.

 

About Media Diversity Australia 

Founded by journalists in 2017, Media Diversity Australia is a national not-for-profit organisation, working towards creating a media landscape that looks and sounds like Australia.

They have expertise in delivering evidence-based research, bespoke programs, strategic memberships and partnerships that disrupt the status quo and pave pathways for diverse representation across Australian media.

For further information on this position please email hello@mediadiversity.org.au

MDA Quarterly Newsletter (Jan – Mar 2023)

Message From The CEO

Budyeri kamaru (hello!) from Eora Country,

We’ve had a jam-packed start to 2023 at Media Diversity Australia.

Our newsletter is now going out quarterly, so we can focus on our expanding suite of impactful programs. We post regularly to social media, so follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook and Twitter for events, opportunities and announcements.

We’ve been busy delivering our Summer Fellowships, Women of Colour Mentorships and more. As well as onboarding newsrooms who have joined up to our media membership model (welcome NewsCorp Australia, The Conversation Group and Private Media Group), and hosting statewide chapter events, including last month in the ACT with award-winning journalist, Peter Greste.

We were delighted to be invited to participate in the Australian Press Council’s Sydney Round Table on ‘Updating Advisory Guideline on Reporting of Race’ as well the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) consultation on a ‘news measurement framework’. We will also be presenting at the upcoming Australian Media Literacy Summit.

A highlight on our calendar was welcoming MDA’s Founder, Isabel Lo, back to Sydney from New York City for our annual Strategy Day. A heartfelt thank you to those who have been donating to our cause in Q1.

We have a big year planned, so watch this space!

Happy reading,

Mariam Veiszadeh (CEO) and the Media Diversity Team 

In this issue:

  • Hear how The Age’s Abbir Dib turned her MDA internship into her dream career.
  • VIC State Chapter member K.C. Boey sheds light on a career dedicated to media and cultural advocacy.
  • Kelly Williams’ recent appointment as ABC’s Head of Indigenous, Diversity and Inclusion is an exciting step for the network.
  • Michelle Gortan, CEO of the Jibb Foundation, says media diversity is an “ethical and civil responsibility”.
  • Introducing MDA’s Winter Fellowship with social impact agency, Weld Stories.
  • Reforming journalism’s role in our democracy – an evening with Peter Greste in Canberra
  • Donation Campaign: Help us continue to have an impact, drive change and create a media landscape that truly looks and sounds like Australia.

The Age’s Abbir Dib turned an MDA internship into her dream career

 Sometimes I felt isolated or unsure if certain behaviour was normal, and it helps to have a community or people behind you that you trust to listen. 

– MDA Summer Fellowships graduate, Abbir Dib

After completing our inaugural Summer Fellowships (formerly Internships) program with Nine News Melbourne in 2020, Abbir continued working with the newsroom. She was recently offered her dream role as a journalist, social producer and opinion writer for The Age, another Fairfax-owned platform.

How did you transition from an MDA Summer Intern to a full-time journalist

This is no easy feat. It was tiring, but I took every opportunity to work hard and meet as many people as possible, both in the industry and out on the field. An internship is essentially one long interview. I was offered a position because I proved I could learn skills quickly and be a valuable asset to the team.

What do you love about your role?

In my current role at The Age, I love the challenge of translating hard news to the growing world of social media. Innovation in journalism is an exciting thing.

What did you learn during your MDA program that benefited your career progression?

I learnt quickly that no one is there to help you unless you have a good attitude. It’s quite sobering, but the onus was on me to show initiative and put aside nervousness. No one will wait for you to make it happen in your career. I also learnt that although senior journalists might be in the workforce, there’s always room for young, diverse perspectives. They’re very needed!

What advice can you offer young, diverse journalists taking their first steps?

Contact young diverse journalists like myself if you feel things are getting tough. Sometimes I felt isolated or unsure if certain behaviour was normal, and it helps to have a community or people behind you that you trust to listen. And also, confidence doesn’t just belong to a certain type of journey; feel empowered in your strengths and voice.

#MDAImpact Q1 Highlights:

Selina Zhang (Summer Fellowships 2023) has been offered a role with Nine News Melbourne
Anushri Sood (WOC Mentorships) has been hired as Interview Producer at Sky News
Alicia Vrajlal (WOC Mentorships) has been promoted to Senior Culture Editor at Refinery29
Tahnee Maxwell (Summer Fellowships 2023) has accepted a role with Hot 100 FM in Darwin

MDA’s Victoria Chapter K.C. Boey sheds light on a career dedicated to media and cultural advocacy

Born and raised in Malaysia and a Melbourne resident for over three decades, K.C. lives and works with diversity in his personal and professional life. As an international media veteran, he’s the former editor of Malay Mail, the first local English daily published during the colonial Federated Malay States, and journalist for The Age. K.C.’s interest in politics and culture saw him undertake further studies at Monash University. Driven by building cross-cultural bridges, his career has expanded into the policy space as an advocate for diversity, inclusion and equity.

Do you think Australia’s media landscape is changing to reflect our nation?

Media everywhere ought to be the mirror of the people that it is the product of and which it ought to reflect. It is instructive that sections of the Australian media have felt the need for a representative voice in setting up MDA, whose annual report card of the media landscape is now in its second edition. The media dial is moving. It will take time.

Media everywhere ought to be the mirror of the people that it is the product of and which it ought to reflect.

– K.C. Boey, MDA VIC Chapter 

What steps should our media take for greater diversity and inclusion?

As with all attempts at change, the earlier we set desirable outcomes, the better and quicker we can arrive at solutions. I ruminated over this question in a fantasy published in the Asia-Pacific Media Educator. In many ways, the answer is taken out of the hands of the media. Power is vested in the political economy of the day and commercial interests. Diversity and inclusion in the media are as beholden to these whims as they are in all domestic and international affairs and interests.

What’s one piece of advice you can offer young journalists?

Read broadly. The 5Ws + H guide the structured coverage and presentation of any report, whether for a general audience or the specific interest of a medical patient, legal litigant or architectural client. The formula is helpful at the start of an assignment. Formulating questions to ask is critical in composing a coherent whole of the sum of the parts in an inquiry. The substance between the start and the end is informed by the inquisitive mind derived from knowing the subject matter through reading.

MDA Chapter Q1 Highlights:

-VIC Chapter Co-Secretary Achol Arok joins SBS News as a cadet and is up for a Melbourne Press Club Quills Award for an ABC News story co-produced with Dan Ziffer.
-VIC Chapter Co-Chair Nassim Khadem was interviewed for the Business In Colour podcast.
-ACT Chapter member Soofia Tariq joins SBS News as Federal Political Reporter.
-NSW Chapter Disability Affairs Officer Briana Blackett has written an op-ed about media coverage of autism and the NDIS for Hireup.

Meet Kelly Williams, the ABC’s new Head of Indigenous, Diversity and Inclusion

Kelly’s recent appointment as ABC’s Head of Indigenous, Diversity and Inclusion is an exciting step for the network. Having worked with the broadcaster for over 30 years, Kelly deeply understands talent management and media and is passionate about positively disrupting workplace culture.

You’ve had a fantastic career at the ABC. What are some highlights?

There are so many. I had two children and spent a few years job-sharing, on fixed-term engagements, and as a casual employee while juggling work and childcare—just getting through that was a highlight. Still, also that juggling allowed me to work across the People & Culture, News and Regional & Local divisions. I’ve produced social and digital platforms for Australian Story, Landline and Back Roads, designed and built TV specials, co-ordinated three ABC Reconciliation Action Plans, established the Diversity Advocates Network, and am currently finetuning the ABC’s 2023-26 Diversity, Inclusion & Belonging plan. I’ve also driven strategic partnerships between ABC, First Nations Media Australia, and First Languages Australia. I couldn’t do that work without Bronwyn Purvis (Partnerships Lead, ABC News).

I get great satisfaction in working with others to drive change. It keeps me inspired. And there is real joy in having your children watch you as you do that work. They are men now and often tell me they are proud of what I do.

What steps can media networks take to support First Nations or culturally and racially marginalised diverse job applicants?

Put First Nations and culturally and linguistically diverse people in senior editorial and management positions. Media networks wouldn’t need to invest in resourcing programs on recruitment and retention if representation were at the top.

Media networks wouldn’t need to invest in resourcing programs on recruitment and retention if representation were at the top.  

Kelly Williams, Head of Indigenous, Diversity & Inclusion ABC

What strategies can diversity advocates use to create more inclusive and supportive workplaces?

One of the easiest things to do is to ensure everyone is heard. If you are in a meeting and an Indigenous or diverse colleague hasn’t spoken, ask them to offer their opinion. And if their opinion adds something to the discussion, say that to everyone. You could also ensure that someone’s cultural authority is recognised during conversations about their communities. They may not be a senior leader, but they may have the cultural authority to inform a discussion about their community.

But further to that, don’t ask the First Nations or the culturally and linguistically diverse person in the room to speak for every community in the country or around the world when big issues hit the news. That has happened to me many times. I’m not a Black oracle. It makes me very uncomfortable to be put in that position.

What outcomes are you most looking forward to from ABC's membership with MDA?

I am so excited to work with MDA. It fits right in with my goal to create pathways into the ABC. I once purchased a painting during an Indigenous Staff Conference on the Gold Coast. For our community day, we went to the Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre. I saw a painting called ‘Women’s Business’, which had 20 beautiful brown women, all depicting different activities in a line of unity. That painting became my inspiration for the pathways I want to leave behind. I think ABC’s membership with MDA will create some of those pathways.

MDA Membership Q1 Highlights:

-New MDA Members: NewsCorp Australia, The Conversation Group and Private Media Group
-The Nine Network debuted Sarah Abo as the new Today show co-host
-AAP launched an Indigenous Affairs desk, lead by Rudi Maxwell and Eelemarni Close-Brown
-The ABC published its Diversity & Inclusion Annual Report 2021-2022
-Channel 10 appointed MDA Mentor Narelda Jacobs to helm its national midday news bulletin

An "ethical and civic responsibility" - Jibb Foundation CEO Michelle Gortan on media diversity

The Jibb Foundation is helping sustain Media Diversity Australia’s strategic growth and overall vision. Established in 2013, Jibb is the family foundation of historic media proprietor John B Fairfax AO and his wife, Libby Fairfax, with a mission to support organisations that strive to improve the equality of opportunity for others. We caught up with Michelle, the foundation’s manager, to hear more about why they supported MDA and why Australia urgently needs a more diverse media landscape.

What are the Jibb Foundation’s key priorities?

The next few years are about supporting our new and long-standing partners with medium to long-term funding. Much of grant-making to date has been to fund salary costs. By providing stability of income for core costs, our partners can focus on attracting and keeping great people and, importantly, focus on getting the job done.

How do the Jibb Foundation’s strategic objectives align with MDA’s?

The commitment of MDA to removing the barriers for people of diverse backgrounds to enter media and journalism is challenging and important work, and the MDA team is passionate and ambitious about achieving that. Mariam (Veiszadeh) impressed me with her cool assessment of the problem MDA is trying to address, and I was equally impressed by her clarity and focus on how to address it. Naturally, the Fairfax family is deeply knowledgeable and committed to media and journalism. For them, interventions that support a high-quality and thriving media sector are of great interest. In their minds, MDA contributes solidly to creating and supporting such a sector.

Why is media diversity such an important issue?

It’s an ethical and civic responsibility. We live in one of the most multicultural countries in the world, and our institutions must reflect that. The media is crucial in informing and educating us and holding power to account. Every single part of our community should feel engaged and informed on the issues that affect them, and the media is one of the most powerful ways to achieve this. We also know that talent exists throughout our diverse communities. We must encourage and enable this talent to surface by directly addressing inequality and discrimination and unlocking opportunities whenever possible. We’ll all be better for it.

Introducing MDA’s Winter Fellowship Program

Media Diversity Australia has joined forces with Weld Stories, a Sydney-based digital content agency committed to social impact storytelling, to offer a Winter Fellowship for one candidate to join Weld’s small team full-time across May and June 2023.

The Fellowship winner will be included in calls with Weld Stories clients, concept development, research, writing, editing, planning, pre-production, distribution strategy, briefing of designers, production, reviewing edits and delivery of assets.

They will also work on developing and creating vibrant and relevant stories for MDA’s social channels.

The winning candidate will have a strong sense of the news and current affairs, an understanding of multimedia storytelling (e.g. feature articles, videos and podcasts), and creative thinking to help drive original approaches to narratives.

Entrants must be Sydney-based and available for six weeks from May 8 to June 16. The winning candidate will be paid a weekly stipend of $1000. For your chance to win, enter now.

Reforming journalism's role in our democracy - an evening with Peter Greste in Canberra

Our ACT Chapter proudly hosted a networking evening on Friday, February 24, featuring Professor Peter Greste at the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House, Canberra in partnership with the MEAA.

Greste, an award-winning journalist, author and academic (Macquarie University), spent fifteen years with the BBC before he joined Al Jazeera as East Africa correspondent. In December 2013, whilst reporting for Al Jazeera, he was arrested in Egypt and charged with airing false news and terrorism offences. Within six months, he was found guilty under the country’s anti-terrorism laws and spent 400 days in prison before being released in February 2015.

Thanks to Jessica Swann-Jadwat and our ACT Chapter members for driving this event!

Want to help create a media that looks and sounds like Australia?

As a not-for-profit organisation, we rely on the help of our incredible volunteers. With your financial and volunteer support, we can continue to run programs to support culturally and linguistically diverse journalists, conduct agenda-setting research, run networking events, provide practical solutions for the media industry, and much more. If you would like to make a tax-deductible donation to support the vital work we do, please click here.

About us

Founded by journalists (Isabel Lo and Antoinette Lattouf) in 2017, Media Diversity Australia (MDA) is a national not-for-profit organisation, working towards creating a media landscape that looks and sounds like Australia. We have expertise in delivering evidence-based research, bespoke programs, strategic memberships and partnerships that disrupt the status quo and pave pathways for diverse representation across Australian media.

Get in touch:

Winter Fellowship 2023

Opportunities

Winter Fellowship 2023

Media Diversity Australia has joined forces with Weld Stories, a Sydney-based digital content agency committed to social impact storytelling, to offer a Winter Fellowship for one candidate to join Weld’s small team full-time across May and June 2023.  

  • The Winter Fellowship is scheduled to run from Monday, May 2023 until Friday, June 16.
  • The Fellowship recipient will be mentored and supported by an MDA Mentor.

THE SIX-WEEK PROGRAM WILL INCLUDE

  • Calls with Weld Stories clients
  • Concept development
  • Research and planning
  • Writing and editing
  • Pre-production and production
  • Distribution strategy
  • Briefing of designers
  • Reviewing edits
  • Delivery of assets
  • Developing and creating vibrant and relevant stories for MDA’s social channels
  • Competitive weekly stipend provided for the duration of the Fellowship

HOW TO APPLY

  • Applicants must have the right to work in Australia
  • Applicants will be from a First Nations or culturally and racially marginalised (CaRM) background
  • Applicants will preferably have experience working in new media or demonstrate strong writing or presentation skills
  • Applicants will ideally be available full-time for six weeks, however, scheduling flexibility can be discussed
  • You must address all of the following to be considered for this program:
  • In 500 words or less, please tell us about you, your media and communication experience, your leadership qualities and aspirations, and why you should be an MDA Winter Fellow.
  • Please attach a CV and at least one written reference.
  • Applications open on Thursday, March 23, 2023, at 9 am AEDT and close on Friday, April 21, 2023, at 5 pm AEST.
  • The Fellowship winner will be announced in late April 2023 after a shortlist interview process.

Applications are now closed.