Why the Australian media sensationalises men’s violence

When it comes to what some call Australia's "epidemic" of men's violence against women, the media plays a significant role – as evidenced by the reporting on the trial of convicted rapist, Melbourne talent manager Ralph Carr. After a decade of media reform advocacy, Jane Gilmore says news headlines are still littered with rape myths, the villainisation of victims and favourable descriptions of perpetrators.

She joins the podcast to discuss what drives sensationalist media coverage of men’s violence and why AI is about to make matters even worse.

This episode covers:

• Media reporting on the rape trial of Ralph Carr
• Why headlines continue to demonise victims and downplay the acts of perpetrators
• The end of the “good guy” narrative for male perpetrators of violence
• The role of social media in driving the gender divide
• Gilmore’s “Groundhog Day” experience in advocacy and policy spaces
• Labelling female journalists “activists”
• Tip: The media and court suppression orders

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If you or someone you know is affected by sexual assault or violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au. In an emergency, call 000.

For counselling, advice and support for men in NSW, Victoria and Tasmania who have anger, relationship or parenting issues, call the Men’s Referral Service on 1300 766 491. Men in WA can contact the Men’s Domestic Violence Helpline on 1800 000 599.

Read more:

• $1.3 million was spent to improve media reporting on male violence. Twelve years later, I fear little has changed
• Rape myths in the media reporting of the High-Profile Melbourne Man’s rape trial
• Pledge to change suppression order law is small progress that smacks of lip service – The Age editorial

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