Google opens its own paid news platform in Australia

Google launched its News Showcase platform in Australia in response to the proposed Media Bargaining Code, which would require big platforms and other digital news outlets to negotiate with publishers regarding payments for news. Google finalised contracts with Australian publishers, and the News Showcase platform will pay seven domestic outlets, including the Canberra Times, to use their content. 

Google has opposed the Australian Media Bargaining Code as ‘unfair’ and ‘unworkable’, and was even threatening to pull out of Australia altogether.