Question Time: Who controls the Mainstream Media?

SUMMARY:
------------------------------
I'm really excited to share this clip from a lively Question Time panel where the audience takes centre stage with tough, pointed questions. The discussion kicks off with a concerned attendee asking Professor Flint why almost all Chinese‑language media in Australia — bar a few outlets like The Epoch Times and Vision Times — seem to be influenced or controlled by the Chinese Communist Party, and why mainstream outlets such as the Sydney Morning Herald and even the ABC republish material originating from a regime. Professor Flint is frank and a bit astonished, while Professor Fendon then dives into a deeper philosophical question about whether the real issue is a collapse of morality or a shift in dialectic thinking — touching on the decline of religion, the role of bylines and accountability in journalism, and how opinion and news have blurred. The exchange moves into cultural scepticism about political sincerity on issues like climate change and media integrity. If you care about press freedom, media bias and the future of public discourse in Australia, this is a sharp, provocative segment that sparks more questions than answers.

RUMBLE DESCRIPTION:
-----------------------------------
Welcome back — this one’s a cracker! I filmed a Question Time panel where the audience gets to ask the academics the hard stuff, and the responses are honest, surprising and sometimes uncomfortable. A member of the audience begins by pointing out that almost all Chinese‑language media in Australia (with a couple of exceptions like The Epoch Times and Vision Times) appear heavily influenced by the Chinese Communist Party, and wonders why mainstream outlets such as the Sydney Morning Herald and even the ABC sometimes reproduce material that originates in or reflects dictatorial sources. Professor Flint responds with visible disbelief and practical observations about how ownership, money and editorial choices can affect what gets published. Professor Fendon follows with a deep, philosophical take asking whether we’re witnessing a collapse of moral standards or a broader dialectical shift — touching on the decline of religion, the lost discipline of the byline, truth versus opinion, and public trust.

This video is for anyone worried about media influence, freedom of the press, journalistic standards, and where public discourse is headed in Australia. Expect candid answers, references to cultural thinkers like Chesterton, and a bit of scepticism about political messaging on issues such as climate policy. If this sparks a reaction, leave a comment, share with friends, and subscribe for more real conversations from Question Time. Tell us: who do you think controls the mainstream media? We want to hear your take.

⚠️ CONTENT DISCLAIMER ⚠️
The views, opinions, and statements expressed in this video are those of the individual speaker(s) and audience members. They do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, or positions of Western Heritage Australia or its affiliates.

This content is presented for educational and informational purposes as well as to facilitate public discourse on important social and political issues. We provide a platform for diverse Australian voices to be heard, to assist the public in forming their own informed opinions.

Western Heritage Australia does not endorse, verify, or take responsibility for the accuracy of statements made by speakers. All claims, statistics, and opinions remain the responsibility of the original speaker. Viewers are encouraged to conduct their own research and consult multiple sources when forming opinions on these topics.

This video may contain strong political opinions, controversial viewpoints, strong language, or mature themes. Viewer discretion is advised.