Beyond the Headline: Trust, Truth & Modern Journalism

In an era of misinformation, artificial intelligence, and rapidly changing media, what does it take to uphold truth and earn public trust? Explore the challenges facing modern journalism, from newsroom ethics and fact-checking to editorial integrity, responsible reporting and the evolving role of journalists.

Join industry professionals as they share insights into balancing accuracy with audience engagement, navigating emerging technologies and telling stories that matter. Discover how journalism continues to adapt while maintaining the principles of credibility, accountability and public interest.

Panel Guests:

• Melissa Stevens – Melissa Stevens is the Editor of Good Weekend, bringing more than two decades of experience in journalism and editorial leadership across Australia and Hong Kong. She previously served as Editor of The Sun-Herald and Digital Editor of the South China Morning Post, alongside senior editorial roles at News Corp Australia.
• Paul Daley – Paul Daley is an award-winning Australian journalist, author and essayist with nearly four decades of experience covering politics, international affairs and Australian history. A two-time Walkley Award winner, he has written for The Guardian since 2013, exploring Australian national identity, Indigenous history and culture. His career also includes senior reporting and editorial roles at The Age, The Sunday Age and The Bulletin.
• Third panellist to be announced.

About the Event:

Hosted by TAFE Diploma of Screen and Media students, this event forms part of a real-world industry project designed to provide practical experience in media production, interviewing, live events and content creation. Throughout the day, students will host panel discussions, engage with industry professionals, ask questions and produce media content surrounding the event.

The session aims to be less of a formal lecture and more of an authentic industry conversation, offering attendees the opportunity to hear honest insights, ask questions and gain a deeper understanding of how journalism and storytelling are evolving in today's fast-paced digital and social media landscape.

Whether you're interested in journalism, broadcasting, digital media or social storytelling, this forum offers valuable insights into the evolving media industry and its future.

Livestream Available

If you can’t attend on campus or are joining from another location, you’ll be able to watch the event via YouTube livestream. The viewing link will be provided in a reminder email two days before the event.

Want to see more?

We have panels running throughout the day! Check the links below for more information and to register.

1. Cut Through the Scroll: How Creators Get Noticed
2. The Power of Audio: Radio, Podcasting & the Future of Listening
3. From Student to Professional: Mythbusting Life After TAFE

Info: From newsroom ethics to AI and misinformation, explore the challenges shaping modern journalism and the importance of truth and trust.

Info: What does it take to stand out online? Discover how creators break through the noise, grow audiences and turn content into opportunity.

Info: What makes audio so powerful? Discover how radio and podcasts connect audiences, amplify voices and transform the way we experience stories.

Info: Explore the challenges, surprises and opportunities of life after TAFE as alumni share the realities of building a career in media.

Event venue & nearby stays

TAFE NSW - 1 Mary Ann Street, Ultimo, 2007, NSW, Australia

Concerts, fests, parties, meetups — all the happenings, one place.

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