This describes the essential skills and knowledge and their level required for this unit

Required Skills

interpret complex information in documents and interviews and make it readable and understandable to a wide variety of readers

consistently produce accurate material

meet publication deadlines

use appropriate information technology and software

sources reads and critically evaluates background information

transcribes material accurately from oral to written text

revises own writing and speaking to enhance meaning and effectiveness

Required Knowledge

various types and styles of stories used in Defence publications

content of the style manual that is relevant to Defence publications

proofreading and clearance procedures

standard newspaper proofing symbols

implications of security privacy and libel provisions

Defence public information and security policies

types of stories

constraints on using information eg security requirements conditions on reporting sensitive issues

Defence issues

current affairs issues

a variety of writing genres

standard operating procedures of relevant public affairs organisations which influence parent organisation

ADF public affairs objectives and the characteristics of Defence public affairs organisations

relevant legislation

Defence News Editorial Board guidelines

Australian Journalists Association Code of Ethics

when to check verify and attribute information

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit

Assessment must confirm the ability to produce stories that are fit for publication within a Defence publication Stories must be accurate with minimal possibility of misinterpretation and conform to government and Defence policies

It is essential that the reporter demonstrates an awareness of current affairs and Defence issues and applies communications ethics that are relevant to the audience and organisation

Consistency in performance

Competency should be demonstrated by providing a range of news features or other journalistic material that are newsworthy and suitable for a Defence publication

Context of and specific resources for assessment

Context of assessment

Competency should be assessed in an office and under operational conditions or in a simulated environment Simulation should recreate realistic office and operational scenarios in a wide range of situations that may be encountered by the Defence reporter and should cover all of the critical aspects of evidence

Evidence should be gathered through questioning relating to underpinning knowledge and the submission of a variety of news features or other journalistic material

Specific resources for assessment

There are no special resource requirements for this unit

Guidance information for assessment

Information that will assist or guide assessment will be written during Phase II of the Review of the PUA Public Safety Training Package

Information that will assist or guide assessment will be written during Phase II of the Review of the PUA00 Public Safety Training Package.

Stories may include

Style manual may include

Public affairs objectives may include

Clearance include