The Australian Library and Information Association (ALIA) today welcomed the incorporation of the Australian Media Literacy Alliance.
ALIA CEO, Cathie Warburton, says “there is a pressing need for Australians to become more media literate. Every day libraries support thousands of people accessing and using media, and we know that there is a substantial gap in resourcing”.
“ALIA is proud to be a foundational member of AMLA. Along with the other core members and supporters we look forward to building on AMLA’s already extensive impact with cutting edge research and advocacy”.
As Australia’s peak media literacy organisation, AMLA assists all Australians to develop critical thinking as they interact with all forms of media.
“With the rise of Generative AI and ongoing challenges related to social media and misinformation it has never been more important to learn how to use the media successfully”, said AMLA Chairperson, Professor Michael Dezuanni.
AMLA Incorporated core members include Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), ACMI (Australian Centre for the Moving Image), Australian Library and Information Association (ALIA), the National Film and Sound Archive of Australia (NFSA), Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Special Broadcasting Service (SBS) and Western Sydney University (WSU).
“Media literacy is no longer optional. It’s essential for informed participation in our democracy, education, and everyday life. AMLA’s incorporation marks a pivotal step in uniting efforts to ensure all Australians have the skills to navigate today’s complex media environment”, said Christine Evely, Head of Education at ACMI and Deputy AMLA Chairperson.
AMLA’s goal is to continue to build a national network of organisations with a commitment to improving Australians’ media-related critical thinking skills.
“Soon we will be announcing our membership structure and will actively seek partnerships with like-minded organisations and individuals to allow us to reach as many Australians as possible”, said Professor Dezuanni.
AMLA’s achievements to date include the development of a research-backed media literacy model which is being used by a number of organisations including the Australian Curriculum and Assessment Authority.
AMLA has also partnered on significant research projects including the Adult Media Literacy in 2024 Report, which surveyed over 4000 adult Australians, building on data from a similar 2021 survey.
The organisation has also published a policy roadmap promoting a national approach and is looking forward to working closely with the Australian Federal Government as it develops Australia’s first National Media Literacy Strategy, as announced in December 2024.