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Qld shield laws enter consultation process
Better protections for Queensland journalists and whistleblowers may be a reality soon as the state government begins consultations on its proposed shield laws.
Naomi Neilson
To foster confidence in approaching media with issues of public interest, Queensland Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Shannon Fentiman has committed to the introduction of laws designed to protect journalists and their sources.
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In doing so, Ms Fentiman released a consultation paper to help inform development of new laws that includes questions of whether shield laws should apply to identities of confidential sources in coronial investigations and inquests and in hearings conducted by tribunals or other decision-making bodies.
“A free, independent and effective media is crucial for a strong democracy,” she said. “Journalists need to be protected when doing their jobs and Queenslanders need to be protected if they come forward with important information.
“We are delivering on our commitment to consult on introducing shield laws – these are complex laws, and we need to get them right with the strongest safeguards.”
Ms Fentiman said shield laws should strike the right balance between protecting the media and Queensland public while allowing courts to act in the interest of justice.
As part of this process, all stakeholders – the media, legal profession and the public – are encouraged to have their say on the framework here.
