Trainee Civic and Political Reporters/Journalists to cover Sydney Local Government News
Sydney,17 May 2025
The Sydney Times is committed to providing unfiltered, opinion-free news to the citizens of NSW. The sheer volume of media releases from the NSW State Government and Opposition demands dedicated attention.
We are seeking civic-minded trainee journalists, graduate volunteers, or seniors/retirees with a passion for political reporting and desire to serve the NSW’s Community to help us maintain our hyper-local, transparent news service.
Sydney Town Hall, George Street, Sydney – 13th November 2019.
Role and Responsibilities:
- Curate and Publish: Curate and publish numerous media releases from the NSW State Government and Sydney City, ensuring they are presented in an unfiltered format with appropriate images
- Attend Media Events: Attend important media conferences, political rallies, and other events, capturing photos in situ.
- Content Management: Edit and post the latest media releases, acting as a webmaster by editing and formatting content.
- AI-Assisted Reportage: Compile and organise reportage with the assistance of AI programs, vetting both original and AI-modified content for accuracy and credibility.
- Information Dissemination: Help keep our growing audience up-to-speed with the latest news that directly impacts them.
- Fact-Checking: Fact-check and verify information to ensure accuracy and credibility.
- Collaboration: Collaborate with other journalists and editors to develop and pursue story ideas.
Who We’re Looking For:
- Journalism or media students, or seniors/retirees with a strong interest in political reporting and a civic-minded mentality.
- Individuals with good reporting and editing skills.
- Comfortable using AI tools to generate quick editorial fixes and ensure accurate reporting.
- A natural curiosity that drives you to discover stories that make an impact.
- Passionate about advocating for and being the voice of the local community.
Please Note: At present, we are not taking on media interns due to the complexities of the law and the significant requirements for training and supervision.
Our volunteer program is designed to provide valuable journalistic experience and a genuine service to our community.
Commercial and Legal Structure
Here’s a breakdown of our commercial and legal framework for Freelancers:
- Collaborative Freelance Agreement: We use a straightforward agreement that outlines the general and negotiable terms and conditions for your engagement, including roles and responsibilities.
- Remuneration: You’ll be paid competitive and fair market rates for freelancers, based on your skills and experience.
- Contract Terms: Our contracts are flexible and negotiable. You’ll have the option to renew or terminate with short written notice.
- Intellectual Property: While Sydney Times Media Pty. Ltd. will own the content you create for our platform, you’ll grant us a non-exclusive license to use and distribute your content across our digital channels.
- Confidentiality: To protect our business interests and sensitive information, you’ll be required to sign a confidentiality agreement.
How to Apply-Expressions of Interest
Please email the following items with the subject line – “Reporter (Arts and Culture)” to Sherri Parliament, MAC’s Communications Manager, sherri@macarts.ca.
- Cover letter describing your interest in the position
- Resume/CV outlining your skills and experience
- 3-5 writing samples of past work. Can include (but not limited to) interviews, articles, press releases, on-screen video reporting, etc.
Please also note that complete expressions of interest can be also submitted via email to editor@sydneytimes.net.au.
For any enquiries or to clarify any aspect of our program, please don’t hesitate to reach out. If you’re ready to join our team, you can submit your application directly to us at editor@sydneytimes.net.au. We look forward to hearing from you!
Please also note that expressions of interest can be submitted via alternate email editor.sydneytimes@gmail.com
