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AustraliaEconomy16 days ago

‘Forgive me, Australia, for I have negatively geared’: The media’s budget coverage is skewed by the view from their second beach house

The article critiques the media's coverage of the Australian federal budget, particularly focusing on reactions to 'negative gearing reform.' It argues that many commentators overreacted to the policy proposal, comparing the response to a personal affront rather than a rational discussion. The piece questions the concept of journalistic objectivity, suggesting that modern journalism is influenced by various factors including personal biases, ownership interests, and other non-neutral motivations.

Some commentators have strong arguments on the failings of the federal budget. But most simply heard the words ‘negative gearing reform’ and reacted like someone had broken into their holiday house and stolen the good linen.

Jun 5, 2026

6 min read

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Treasurer Jim Chalmers (Image: Private Media)

The concept of objectivity is the load-bearing myth holding up the whole damp share house that is journalism. Without it, the news is propaganda, advocacy, entertainment, personal branding, unpaid therapy and a support group for balding white men who have mistaken confidence for relevance.

Of course, nobody really believes in objectivity anymore. Not in the pure, priestly, marble-columned sense in which journalists stand above the grubby world, gazing down upon politics like grand eagles. Audiences know journalists and editors have politics, newspapers have owners, owners have interests, interests have lawyers, and lawyers have second homes.

Read the full article at Crikey →

1 reports

CrikeyIndependentCenter16 days ago
‘Forgive me, Australia, for I have negatively geared’: The media’s budget coverage is skewed by the view from their second beach house

The article critiques the media's coverage of the Australian federal budget, particularly focusing on reactions to 'negative gearing reform.' It argues that many commentators overreacted to the policy proposal, comparing the response to a personal affront rather than a rational discussion. The piece questions the concept of journalistic objectivity, suggesting that modern journalism is influenced by various factors including personal biases, ownership interests, and other non-neutral motivations.

Bias read (Center): The article presents a critical perspective on media bias but does so without overtly favoring any specific political side. It uses sarcasm and commentary to highlight perceived imbalances in media coverage, yet avoids taking a clear stance on the policies discussed. The tone remains analytical and揶