The Media's Influence on Racial Issues
1. Research Background

As a member of an ethnic minority in Australia, the author has personally experienced racial discrimination. However, despite these experiences, the author chose to pursue further studies in Australia and began to focus on ethnic issues, particularly how the media influences societal perceptions of race. Inspired by the research of Professor Michael Meadows, the author decided to explore the ways in which the media reports on Indigenous peoples and other minority groups.

2. Australian Society and Racial Issues

Australia is a settler-colonial society, and the historical oppression of Indigenous peoples and ethnic minorities continues to have lasting effects.
The Asian community in Australia mainly consists of immigrants who focus on livelihood and social integration, often paying little attention to Indigenous issues.
Indigenous communities remain disadvantaged in healthcare, education, employment, and the justice system.
Right-wing politician Pauline Hanson has promoted anti-minority policies, advocating for "white supremacy" and exacerbating racial tensions.

3. The Role and Influence of the Media

The Media's Perpetuation of Racial Bias

Through selective reporting and biased language, the media reinforces negative stereotypes about minority groups. For example, Indigenous protests are often labeled as "riots," while white demonstrations are described as "civil rights actions."
The media constructs an ideological framework that upholds the dominance of the mainstream society, thereby legitimizing the marginalization of ethnic minorities.

Media Freedom vs. Bias

While the media claims to uphold "freedom and objectivity," its reporting is often influenced by political and commercial interests.
Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) reveals how news coverage shapes public perceptions and subtly reinforces racial inequality.