YouTube is updating its Shorts recommendation system to prioritise original content and reduce the reach of videos re-uploaded from other creators without meaningful additions. The change could have implications for news organisations and independent journalists who rely on short-form videos to distribute news and reach new audiences. In an October 1, 2026, announcement, YouTube said channels primarily aggregating or re-uploading other creators’ videos without significant changes would likely see less distribution in the Shorts feed. It encouraged creators to add original commentary, distinctive editing or storytelling rather than making minor technical changes to existing videos. For newsrooms, where multiple outlets often report on the same developments and use similar footage, the shift raises questions about how journalists can distinguish their content and maintain visibility on a platform increasingly emphasising originality. Aman Chhikara, Deputy Manager (YouTube) at

Veteran media executive Ishita Chauhan has launched Cultural (Mis)fits (CMF), a culture company aimed at supporting artists, creators and communities shaping India’s alternative creative scene. Announced in New Delhi on October 8, the company will focus on developing talent, creating cultural intellectual property, producing content and organising live experiences. It also aims to connect emerging artists and cultural communities with brands, audiences and global opportunities. CMF’s initial roster includes Rushil Ranjan, Abi Sampa, Eshna Kutty, Gopal Datt Tewari, Aakash Odedra and Nirvair Rai. It will also work with The Orchestral Qawwali Project, Songs of Bulbul, Jupiter Pe Juice and its own music property, Ruhbaru. Chauhan said the idea grew from her experience of being a misfit and questioning conventional ideas. With more than 20 years of experience across media, brands, content and culture, she wants to create opportunities for talent that may not fit mainstream

The Karnataka Union of Working Journalists- R (KUWJ-R) has condoled the death of veteran journalist Bandigadi Nanjundappa, editor of Voice of Shivamogga, recalling his dedication to journalism and his contributions to journalists’ organisations. Nanjundappa remained committed to KUWJ and actively supported the growth of the journalism fraternity. He as well served for several years as president of the Newspaper Editors’ Association and as a member of its national council, taking an active interest in the activities of journalists’ organisations. Even at the age of 75, Nanjundappa enthusiastically participated in sports events and won prizes. Known for his friendly nature, he maintained cordial relationships with everyone and remained active throughout his life. Describing his death as an irreparable loss to the journalism fraternity, state president Shivanand Tagadur said his contributions and commitment would be remembered.  

Chalmers flags a “year of pain” as populist politics bites Treasurer Jim Chalmers is warning Australians to brace for tougher economic conditions, while urging progressives not to sneer at One Nation voters as cost-of-living pressure reshapes the political map. The message underscores Labor’s vulnerability heading into the next election: economic headwinds are colliding with cultural division and a rise in protest voting. Covered by: Sydney Morning Herald, The Age, The Australian. Labor’s trust tax hits fresh resistance as states baulk Labor’s proposed 30% minimum tax on discretionary trusts has run into another obstacle, with states resisting a federal push to waive stamp duty for people and businesses forced to restructure out of trusts. The standoff raises the risk the reform becomes politically toxic and practically unworkable, threatening a key budget measure and adding to caucus nerves. Covered by: Australian Financial Review, Australian Financia

Nathanael Cooper has swapped The Daily Telegraph for The West Australian, joining as editor of The Sunday Times Magazine. The magazine is the weekly Sunday lifestyle supplement to the paper, covering fashion, food, society and popular culture.  Cooper told Influencing that he spotted the role advertised, reached out to his old boss Chris Dore to express interest, “and then it all moved very quickly”.  Cooper said the magazine, now in its 21st year, is a great resource “whether you want to know where to get a great meal, or where to buy the latest fashion, or who matters in Perth”. Cooper said his aim was “to take that incredible legacy and continue it and expand on it.” “I think there are amazing opportunities with digital for people, not just in Western Australia, but all over Australia to learn more about the great things that are happening here.”  Cooper said PRs can best get a read on what to pitch by reading th

Monday night’s Media Watch segment titled “Tick of Approval” looked into retirement expert Rebecca Wilson’s level of disclosure when it came to her partnerships with super funds.  The story centres on the launch of Wilson’s The Retirement Tick, which assessed super funds on what they do for members in retirement. It featured in her columns for The Sunday Age and in her TV appearances on Nine’s Today Extra. Host Linton Besser cited Wilson’s column, which said the report was to “give consumers a way to identify the super funds that were truly doing a good job.” Eight funds earned her tick of approval. Besser focused on AMP Super, noting Wilson singled it out three times during a TV appearance. Besser revealed that AMP Super had partnered with Wilson, pointing to an AMP Super press release and a LinkedIn post from Wilson about a podcast episode with an AMP Super executive. The post carried the hashtag #ad. The host also cit