Future of 7 Tasmania News ‘at risk’ as senators join bid to save local TV bulletin

On October 14, 2024By Yukito

A rare cross-party call has been made to protect local TV news in Tasmania as the Seven Network moves closer to acquiring full ownership of Southern Cross Austereo’s TV station 7 Tasmania.

The proposed takeover, reported by the Australian Financial Review earlier this month, would give Seven sole control of its Tasmanian operations, currently conducted under an associate agreement with SCA.

While Seven is reportedly anticipating an increase in viewership for both local news and live sports when the Tasmania Devils join the AFL in 2028, fears have been raised that new ownership could lead to significant cuts to local operations.

Under current arrangements, SCA broadcasts Channel 7 programs across the state and produces the top-rated 7 Nightly News bulletin from its studios in Launceston and Hobart.

Concerns have been raised about potential cuts to Tasmania’s 7 local branches following the takeover. Image / Pulse

However, the recent sale of the Launceston studios by SCA and the uncertain future of the facility have raised concerns among staff that the new owners may move news production interstate.

In response, a group of senators from across the political spectrum sent a joint letter to SCA chairman Heath Mackay-Cruise expressing their concerns.

7 Nightly News is produced in studios in Launceston and Hobart

The letter, signed by Labor senator Helen Polley, Labor senator Jacqui Lambie, Green senator Nick McKim and Liberal senator Jonno Duniam, calls for assurances that jobs and services in Tasmania are maintained.

As TV Blackbox reports, senators are demanding a commitment to “maintain or expand” the local 7 Tasmania News service.

They say news must be produced and broadcast in Tasmanian studios and reject any plans to move some or all of its operations interstate.

They warned that any service cuts would weaken the local media landscape, potentially harming state interests and the social fabric.

Senators say any cuts to Tasmania’s Number 7 will be seen as a blow to media diversity in Tasmania. Image / Pulse

“Weakening the media market is not in Tasmania’s interests and, in principle, any such weakening would be seen as a breach of faith for many thousands of viewers in our state,” the letter reads.

It comes after Tasmanian Digital Television, the local arm of Channel 10, which is jointly owned by Southern Cross Austereo and WIN Network, recently laid off its entire team and closed its offices in Hobart and Launceston.