The Alliance has written to the Department of Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs recommending that if journalists are exempt from the permit system when accessing remote indigenous communities – under proposed changes to the legislation - the creation of a code of conduct is necessary to guide the actions of those journalists. Read the letter here...

After a concerted campaign from the Right to Know Coalition changes to the Freedom of Information laws in Victoria were defeated in the Victorian Upper House last week. The laws would have allowed for further delays when processing Freedom of Information requests; that's another 30 days on top of the 45 already allowed.

The final date for entries into the 2007 Tasmanian Media Awards is closing fast. Entries must be submitted by 5pm (AEST) on Wednesday, 20 Feb 2008. Download an entry form here. The awards will be announced at a gala Media Ball at the Rydges Hotel, North Hobart, Saturday 29 March. Tickets are now available. For bookings, contact the Alliance Membership Centre on 1300 656 513.

All freelancers are invited to attend Sydney Freelance Journalists Group meeting on Tuesday February 19 to hear leading experts explore the advantages of developing specialist rounds. Gallipoli Memorial Club, 12 Loftus Street Sydney, 6pm for 6.30pm start, $10 for Alliance members. Booking essential email aid@alliance.org.au

Alliance members working at Rural Press regional daily newspapers in NSW, will vote this Thursday, 10 January, between 12 noon and 2 pm. The vote will be conducted via secret ballot by the Australian Electoral Commission and will be an attendance ballot in the workplace, rather than a postal vote. Read the full workplace bulletin notice here.