Brand Visiting Journalist Program guidelines

Brand Tasmania® hosts a Visiting Journalist Program – VJP - that is based on a strategic plan designed to advance the knowledge of journalists and commentators about Tasmania and to get messages to the national audience and key export markets about Tasmanian innovations, achievements and successes.

Journalists and media organisations are invited to apply for assistance to visit and report on Tasmanian stories. Applications should be made via e-mail to Robert Heazlewood

In considering applications, Brand Tasmania® assesses factors such as publication distribution, audience profile, the nature of the publication or program and the credentials of the applicant. Freelancers should provide a copy of a letter substantiating their commission.

The following criteria will need to be met:

1. Media representatives are required to complete a media assessment form and any decision on financial or logistical support will be based on the relevance of the publication/broadcast medium to Brand VJP target audiences, size of circulation/audience and track record of media representatives.

2. An itinerary will be supplied to media representatives for each visit and will specify logistical arrangements, contacts and escorts.

3. The Brand VJP will provide direct support for a media visit of up to four days, unless it is determined that exceptional outcomes can be obtained through support for a longer period.

4. Journalists will be required to cover their own expenses for visas, meals (unless hosted), medical bills or medication, personal and travel insurance, ground transport not specified in the itinerary, petrol in rental vehicles, non-room expenses at accommodation venues, and personal items.

5. The program will not provide discounted touring arrangements for media representatives who wish to pursue business or personal interests before or after the set VJP itinerary.

6. Applications from media representatives are required a minimum of one month in advance to enable preparation of itineraries and logistical support.

7. Electronic images, colour slides and transparencies from the Tourism Tasmania and Brand Tasmania® Image Library are available to journalists on request.

8. Brand Tasmania Council, accepts no liability for any injury or loss.

9. The Brand Council will determine priorities for industry sectors and monitor performances.