The Independent Media Agencies of Australia (IMAA) and ThinkNewsBrands are set to launch a new educational initiative, the Publishing & News101 learning module.

This module is the first in the IMAA Academy’s education program to be delivered in 2024. The e-learning module will delve into Australia's publishing and news media landscape, covering printed news, news websites, news apps, and category content publications.

Participants will gain insights into the benefits of leveraging the nation's diverse news and publishing channels, as well as essential measurement tools and strategies for planning, buying, and booking news media. The module is part of the IMAA Academy’s eight-part education program, which was launched last year.

The launch event is scheduled for 8 February at News Corp Australia headquarters in Sydney, featuring industry experts. Attendees will undergo group learning sessions and receive certification upon completion of the Publishing & News101 module. The module includes case studies from leading brands, including Tourism NT, CommBank, and Blackmores, highlighting their successful strategies and outcomes using news publishing media.

Participants can access the Publishing & News101 learning module via the IMAA Academy’s all-inclusive training package or via individual module sign-up.

"We’re thrilled to kick off 2024 with the launch of Publishing & News101 – our publishing and news media e-module. Despite the ever-changing digital world, one thing that has stood the test of time is Australians’ thirst for news and entertainment, from print, to digital and apps. According to Roy Morgan research, 20.8 million people read general news – that’s a whopping 96% of the population. Additionally, at least 75% of Australians read category specific sections like property, sport, lifestyle and entertainment, so it represents a huge potential advertising market." said Sam Buchanan, CEO of IMAA.

"The Publishing & News101 module underscores the importance of fostering knowledge and expertise within the media industry, empowering professionals to navigate the evolving landscape of publishing and news," added Vanessa Lyons, CEO of ThinkNewsBrands.

"I am absolutely thrilled to extend News Corp Australia's full support to the IMAA’s launch of the Publishing & News101 education module. Embracing education is crucial, and this module will undoubtedly empower young industry professionals with valuable insights into the dynamic world of publishing and news. At News Corp Australia, we believe in the importance of fostering knowledge and expertise, and this initiative aligns perfectly with our commitment to continuous learning." stated Lou Barrett, Managing Director National Sales, News Corp Australia.

"We want to thank ThinkNewsBrands and the IMAA for launching this module of Publishing & News101. It's incredibly important to us to support education and development within the industry, and to have one of our key editorial talent and Sport Editor, Jakeb Waddell speak on the panel at the upcoming event. We look forward to bringing this opportunity to Western Australia in 2024." expressed Brent Stewart, Chief Sales Officer, Seven West Media.

"Nine has a proud history of fostering talent and helping to grow the industry, and we are honoured to support the IMAA Academy, in partnership with ThinkNewsBrands. The power of news publishing platforms, and its impact and influence through content - whether that be groundbreaking public interest journalism or lifestyle stories that resonate with a younger audience - is an important tool that can be fully harnessed through the education modules." said Jo Clasby, Nine's Director of Sales - Publishing.

The IMAA was established in February 2020 as a national industry body representing Australia’s independent media agencies. ThinkNewsBrands is an industry body founded by Australian media owners, focusing on professionally produced premium news content.