By PETER DOUGLAS
SEVEN Leader newspapers throughout Melbourne will soon publish their final editions, with News Corp this morning announcing cuts.
This will include the closure of the ‘Free Press Leader’, which circulates throughout the Yarra Ranges.
Other community newspapers will include Berwick, Brimbank, Hobsons Bay, Melbourne, Melton and Wyndham.
As many as eight journalists could be without jobs after the News Corp decision.
The Media Entertainment and Arts Alliance (MEAA) revealed the cuts through a bulletin to its members, which stated that increased competitive pressures and the size of the market had been cited as the drivers behind the decision.
The final editions are flagged for the week beginning Monday 27 June.
MEAA Victorian director Carolyn Dunbar has hit out at News Corp.
“MEAA members were this morning told that in three weeks, their papers will no longer exist,” she said.
“It’s just not good enough.
“The company is required to consult with their staff about major changes and the company should be drawing on the expertise of editorial staff on the ground before announcing any cuts to titles.”
Ms Dunbar said it was a huge blow for community newspapers.
The MEAA said it has sought a meeting with News Corp to discuss the proposed changes.
