Axing of Meanjin does not add up

The Media, Entertainment & Arts Alliance is dismayed by a decision by Melbourne University Publishing to axe one of the nation’s longest-running literary journals, Meanjin.

The 85-year-old publication has played a significant role in Australia’s intellectual and cultural landscape for the better half of a century, providing ongoing work for dozens of freelance writers and creative workers.

MEAA Media Director Cassie Derrick said it was a sad day for media diversity in Australia and questioned the justification for the axing.

“MEAA members, many of whom are freelancers, are understandably upset by this decision, which is extremely short-sighted and will leave a dent on the nation’s literary landscape,” she said.

“Blaming the decision on financial reasons doesn’t add up, given the publication recently secured a $2 million grant from Creative Australia to fund its next two years of operation.

“At a time when writers and creatives are increasingly facing censorial voices, the frank and fearless writing Meanjin has always published is more important than ever.”