Experts blast New Corp’s withdrawal from regions

Of those, 36 closed completely, while 76 others switched to digital-only publications, with most of those sites now being swallowed by the two capital city websites.

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In emails to subscribers, News Corp has spruiked the changes as a positive thing, claiming that they are investing in “hyperlocal news technology” and that the move will increase convenience for readers.

University of Queensland journalism expert Richard Murray rubbished that claim, saying News Corp had made a business decision to protect its bottom line.

“It’s a bit of a low act, honestly, and for those communities affected it’s going to mean less local news, which is not a happy situation,” Dr Murray said.

“These are tremendous losses to the local…