CAMA launches Charter to strengthen unity, equity, and accountability across Aotearoa’s Community Access Media sector

The Community Access Media Alliance (CAMA) has released its Charter and Principles of Practice, establishing a unified framework for how Aotearoa’s twelve Community Access Media organisations collaborate to serve their communities, uphold Te Tiriti o Waitangi, and advocate for equitable media access.

Building on the CAMA Strategic Plan 2025–2030, the Charter formalises the shared values and commitments that define the sector (democracy, access, equity, diversity, independence, and collaboration), while reinforcing the autonomy of each member station.

“This Charter represents both our shared vision and our collective responsibility,” says Phil Grey, CAMA Chair.

“Each station remains fiercely local and independent, but together we’re building the frameworks and trust needed to strengthen the sector as a whole.”

The Charter outlines seven principles of practice, including commitments to:

  • Representation and collective responsibility, ensuring a united national voice where appropriate;
  • Programming and content standards that reflect diversity, accuracy, cultural safety, and accessibility;
  • Civic information, recognising Community Access Media’s role in delivering timely, multilingual public information;
  • Ethical practice and governance, protecting editorial independence and integrity; and
  • Collaboration and capability building, through shared data, resources, and training.

Grey says the Charter is a practical tool designed to support both local autonomy and national coordination.

“The Charter is about strengthening the collective while celebrating what makes each station unique. It ensures we can advocate with consistency, coordinate sector-wide projects, and speak with credibility in national policy and funding discussions,” he says.

A framework for resilience and recognition

CAMA’s advocacy has intensified over the past year, particularly in relation to the review of the Broadcasting Act 1989 and the development of the Emergency Management Bill. The Charter provides a policy framework for this work, articulating the sector’s standards and accountability mechanisms in line with best practices from UNESCO, ITU, and UNDP.

“Community Access Media has proven time and again that it’s a lifeline for communities in times of crisis,” says Grey. “Formalising our principles helps demonstrate to government and partners that we’re not just storytellers, we’re essential public service communicators.”

By embedding shared principles, accountability, and a clear framework for collaboration, the Charter strengthens the sector’s ability to deliver trusted, inclusive, and resilient media for all New Zealanders. 

It’s both a declaration of intent and an invitation to government, funders, and the public to recognise the vital role of Community Access Media in Aotearoa’s media, democratic, and cultural landscape.

You can access the Charter here. Learn more about our core services here or via cama.nz.