Hands off our NBN local news

The Member for Lyne, Alison Penfold has called on the WIN Network to publicly commit to maintain the same local news coverage and local news crews provided by NBN Newcastle following its acquisition from the owners of the Nine network.

“Our local NBN journalists and camera crews have stood with us in the good times and the bad – from the May 2025 floods, 2019 bushfires to local shows and events,” Ms Penfold said.

“Their work helps amplify our voice, share our joys and our grief and help bring communities and our region together.

“It may surprise many people that not all regional areas have a local 6pm TV news bulletin and local journalists like we do.

“We therefore cannot assume that the new owners of NBN will keep the same service we have now.

“Having real local crews means we have journalists telling our stories.

“We must protect what we have. If we don’t, we will never get it back.”

The Member for Lyne expressed concerns about the lack of competition for local reporting that will stem from the sale.

“I am concerned that the sale of NBN Newcastle to the WIN Network will remove a genuine local news service and remove competition that pressures the delivery of it. 

“The sale requires the approval of the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission and I ask them to consider whether the sale will provide the same local news coverage and reporting, including ensuring local crews remain based in Taree and Port Macquarie.

“Any suggestion of a loss of local news coverage should result in a rejection of the deal. I will be writing to the ACCC and to the WIN Network to voice my concerns.”

The announcement was made by the owners of the Nine Network to the ASX on Friday 30 January and requires the approval of Nine shareholder approval.