Local news service for regional outlets

Regional and community newspapers, radio stations, online news sites, trade publications and sometimes metro newsrooms looking for local stringers.

A fee per story, a retainer or set number of stories per month from regular clients, and extra fees for photos or for re-selling a story to several non-competing outlets, if your contracts allow it.

• News writing to a deadline
• Finding sources and checking facts
• Understanding media law basics
• Pitching stories to editors

• Defamation law, which differs between states and territories, so consider a short media law course
• Court reporting rules such as suppression orders and restrictions on naming certain people, check with the relevant court
• Copyright: agree in writing who owns and can re-sell each story
• Whether professional indemnity or media liability insurance is worth having, and public liability if you meet people on site
• Income can be uneven while you build regular clients, and GST registration is needed once turnover reaches the threshold

Startup costs are estimated at typically around $600 to $3,000, depending on your equipment, any media law training and insurance. Check what you need for the area and topics you plan to cover.

Monthly revenue is typically around $600 to $3,500, depending on how many outlets buy your stories and photos and what they pay. Income can be uneven while you build regular clients. The idea suits about 10 or more hours a week.

Check defamation law, which differs between states and territories, and consider a short media law course. Check court reporting rules such as suppression orders, agree in writing who owns each story's copyright, and consider media liability insurance.