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News 15 Feb 2021 - 1 min read

Stoked: Seven West strikes Google deal ahead of news code

By Nicola Riches - Contributing Editor

Seven West has struck a deal with Google with days to spare before the news bargaining code is finalised. The diversified media group joins other local publishers by signing up to Google News Showcase, though the big players are still holding out.

What you need to know:

  • Seven signs Google deal as media bargaining code decision nears.
  • Media firm joins likes of ACM in partnering with Google News Showcase.
  • Kerry Stokes applauds work of Prime Minister and Treasurer for facilitating talks.
  • Seven will formally sign deal after 30-day negotiation period with Google.

Seven West Media and Google have struck a deal ahead of this week’s expected ruling on the media bargaining code that will see the diversified media firm sign up to Google News Showcase.

The agreement is subject to negotiations over the course of the coming month, during which time the Australian government will formalise its position on the media bargaining code.

The deal is “a great outcome for Seven West Media and for Google", according to Seven West Media Chairman Kerry Stokes. "Our new partnership recognises the value, credibility and trust of our leading news brands and entertainment content across Seven and West Australian Newspapers.”

Google News Showcase gives readers access to greater publisher content that sits behind paywalls, while issuing tools for publishers to market subscriptions, in a similar fashion to Apple News.

The search giant has signed up 450 news publishers to the platform across the world. Australian signatories include ACM, The Saturday Paper, The Conversation and The New Daily.

While Google is attempting to evade the government's proposed new laws as currently written, Stokes said PM Scott Morrison and Treasurer Josh Frydenberg should be applauded for bringing the platforms to the table. 

“Their outstanding leadership on the implementation of the proposed News Media Bargaining Code has resulted in us being able to conclude negotiations that result in fair payment and ensure our digital future,” he said.

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