Media Roundup: MAFS police drama, ABC takes aim at News Corp, Paul Kent's comeback, eSafety toughens rules and Country Road names new boss

James Madden and James Manning reports in The Australian, responding to a question from Greens senator Sarah Hanson-Young, Stevens framed the media giant's scrutiny as more than just journalism, calling it an "obsession" that goes beyond fair critique.

While the ABC and News Corp have long been at odds, the debate raises a broader question for advertisers: where does trust sit in Australia’s media landscape?

[Read more]

Podcasts

Paul Kent's media comeback but is his brand still bankable

Paul Kent was once a central figure in Fox Sports' NRL coverage, known for his fiery takes and no-nonsense analysis.

[Read more]

Tech

Social platforms face hefty fines as eSafety tightens the rules

Social media giants could be hit with fines of up to $50 million if they fail to stop Australian children from accessing adult content under new industry codes submitted to the eSafety commissioner.

As Ben Smee reports in The Guardian, the proposed rules give tech companies six months to roll out stronger protections, forcing them to implement age verification and restrict explicit material.

For platforms that allow adult content, the stakes are even higher. They must introduce stricter safeguards to keep minors out, while services that prohibit explicit material will be required to actively detect and remove content, including depictions of self-harm and extreme violence. Compliance isn't optional - it's now a financial and reputational risk.

[Read more]

Apple's budget play iPhone 16e offers savings but at a cost

Apple’s latest iPhone 16e trims $400 off the standard iPhone 16 price tag, making it a more budget-friendly option at $1,000.

As Tim Biggs reports in The Age, but this isn’t just another entry-level model like the now-retired iPhone SE - it's a strategic play to capture cost-conscious consumers without sacrificing too much of the flagship experience.

To hit the lower price point, Apple has made a few calculated cuts. The 16e lacks some premium perks like better cameras, faster charging, and a brighter display. For buyers, the question isn't whether it’s a good phone - it's whether those missing features are worth an extra $400.

[Read more]

Retail

Country Road names new boss as retail giant seeks stability

Country Road has tapped former Sergio Rossi CEO Helen Wright to lead its namesake brand, bringing in a seasoned executive at a time of leadership shake-ups. Wright, an Australian with global luxury experience, steps in after a turbulent year for the retailer, which is still searching for a new group chief executive.

As Carrie LaFrenz reports in The Australian Financial Review, her appointment comes as parent company Woolworths Holdings, the South African retail giant that once owned David Jones, looks to steady the ship.

Recruitment firm Spencer Stuart is leading the search for a new CEO, with Raju Vuppalapati expected to depart. Meanwhile, Country Road - known for its elevated basics like denim and tees - aims to regain momentum in an increasingly competitive fashion market.

[Read more]