AFP media raids raise concerns for all Australian writers 

6.06.19

The Australian Federal Police has this week conducted high-profile raids on the media, including individual journalists and the ABC's Sydney headquarters. This has led to a storm of protest in defence of freedom of the press.

The media is united in their condemnation and alongside other industry bodies, the ASA is deeply concerned about these raids and their implications for all Australian writers. 

As the peak national body for writers and illustrators in Australia, we believe our members must be able to protect their sources and continue to report without fear of sanction of imprisonment, when there is clear public interest and a right to know. 

John Lyons, the ABC’s executive news editor, wrote on Twitter “I have to say, sitting here watching police using a media organisation’s computers to track everything to do with a legitimate story I can’t help but think: this is a bad, sad and dangerous day for a country where we have for so long valued – and taken for granted – a free press.” 

Author and journalist Peter Greste wrote in The Guardian, "To be clear, this is not simply about protecting the rights of journalists to stick their noses into the inner workings of government. This is about ensuring the kind of transparency and accountability that has helped make Australia one of the most stable, prosperous and peaceful places on the planet.”  

We will be following any updates concerning these developments and will continue, on behalf of our members, to advocate for your rights and where possible take action.