February 21, 2019
Independent news agency Australian Associated Press (AAP) is launching a dedicated “fact-checking” unit ahead of the Federal Election … and it’s inviting readers to submit claims to be checked.
The unit aims to combat misinformation during the upcoming political campaigns.
AAP CrossCheck will be fully operational from February 25 with a mission to verify questionable claims made by public figures.
“We will scrutinise the statements being made by some of the most influential members of society so that, through our media partners, Australian voters can make decisions based on the verified truth rather than political spin,” AAP Editor-in-Chief Tony Gillies said.
“While it will initially focus on political content, we see AAP CrossCheck evolving into a permanent and integral part of Australia’s media landscape.
“AAP CrossCheck is our way of supporting the work of our media partners, and championing public expectations around accountability and integrity from those in positions of trust.”
Developed with the support of the Google News Initiative, AAP CrossCheck will maintain full editorial independence under the direction of editor Louise Evans and her team.
“AAP CrossCheck is forging a newer, faster fact-checking model. While we will never compromise on accuracy, we want to be far more responsive to the demands of the news cycle so we can get the truth out quickly,” Ms Evans said.
AAP CrossCheck content will be published on a dedicated website, crosscheck.aap.com.au
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How To Get Involved
Readers who would like to suggest a submission for review, should visit crosscheck.aap.com.au
Submissions must include your name, contact number and details of the news item you are submitting for verification.
Submissions must meet the following selection criteria:
1. The checkable claim must be contained in a direct quote from a public figure or otherwise influential individual
2. The quoted statement must contain clearly verifiable elements. AAP CrossCheck cannot assess personal opinion or editorial comment
3. The quoted statement must have been made, or reported in Australian news media, recently
4. It must be relevant to a broad audience
