Digital subscriptions launch

Australian Community Media (ACM) will introduce digital subscriptions for The St George & Sutherland Shire Leader and Blue Mountains Gazette from next month, making them the last of ACM’s long-standing community newspapers to introduce digital subscriptions.

Both mastheads will continue their proud tradition of free weekly print distribution, supported by local and national advertisers targeting these affluent suburban audiences. Online access, however, will move to a paid model – asking online readers to support the news that puts their community first with a supporter subscription.

ACM Managing Director Tony Kendall said the change is the intuitive next step in the digital transformation of the ACM portfolio.

“Local, independent reporting is vital for strong, informed communities. High-quality journalism – especially trusted local news – must be supported, and introducing subscriptions ensures these mastheads can continue to provide it.

“Digital subscriptions will provide the resources to sustain independent reporting, while free print ensures broad access continues.” Kendall said.

For more than 60 years, The Leader and The Gazette have been telling the continuing story of St George and the Sutherland Shire – from floods, fires and a global pandemic, to celebrating local successes, championing causes, and asking tough questions of decision-makers.