The ALP conference, held every three years, is the place where the Labor party decides on its platform for the next three years. When Labor is in power the debate takes on added significance.

This year was Adelaide’s turn.

Each conference includes a fringe program of stalls and events. With more than 800 delegates and observers, the conference attracts businesses and community organisations who participate in the fringe.

While the conference was the place for polite debate, there was plenty of action at the fringe.

ABC Friends was on hand to spread the word about our work and the need to support an independent and free ABC.

ABC Friends SA/NT joined us in hosting a stall over the three days. Numerous delegates and observers dropped by to have a chat and learn more about our work. Some joined as members while others signed our petition in support of keeping the ABC free.

Restoring trust in public interest journalism

ABC Friends also joined forces with the Alliance of Journalists’ Freedom to host an event at the Fringe. With Cassandra Parkinson as MC, the event was opened by the Minister for Communications, Anika Wells. She was followed by a panel session moderated by journalist and academic Peter Greste.

Good journalism is crucial to a well-functioning democracy. But it’s under threat.

Quentin Dempster, Lenore Taylor and Rod Sims joined moderator Peter Greste, to talk about how we can strengthen and renew trust in public interest journalism. It was a fascinating and robust discussion. Expect to hear more over coming months.

Thank you to Peter Vandeleur and the team at ABC Friends SA/NT for all their work in hosting the stall and to the Alliance of Journalists’ Freedom for joining us in presenting the event.

Watch the full panel discussion below