Application
This unit describes the skills required to write news features or other journalistic material for Defence publications. In the most part, information for a Defence publication will come from within the organisation. In some cases however, material will be provided from external sources. News features and other material will generally be published in services newspapers, magazines and on internet sites.
This unit was developed for Defence reporters, but is applicable to anyone working in this field.
The skills and knowledge described in this unit must be applied within the legislative, regulatory and policy environment in which they are carried out. Organisational policies and procedures must be consulted and adhered to.
Those undertaking this unit would mainly work independently, seeking assistance from superiors when needed. They would perform complex tasks in known contexts.
No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to unit at the time of publication.
Elements and Performance Criteria
ELEMENTS | PERFORMANCE CRITERIA |
Elements describe the essential outcomes | Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. Where bold italicised text is used, further information is detailed in the range of conditions section. |
1. Draft the story | 1.1 Identify key story points and reader specific angles. 1.2 Determine appropriate style and maintain throughout the copy. 1.3 Structure draft story and attribute quotes. 1.4 Comply with organisation’s style manual and meet the needs of target audiences when drafting the story. |
2. File the story for publication | 2.1 Identify, and factor into planning, public affairs objectives/constraints and client needs. 2.2 Clear the story with the subject as appropriate. 2.3 Submit story for proofreading and clearance by the senior reporter and amend accordingly. 2.4 File story after being assessed as publication quality. 2.5 Recognise and meet deadlines. |
Evidence of Performance
Evidence required to demonstrate competence must satisfy all of the requirements of the elements and performance criteria. If not otherwise specified the candidate must demonstrate evidence of performance of the following on at least one occasion.
using appropriate information technology and software
producing stories that are accurate, with minimal possibility of misinterpretation
producing stories that conform to government and Defence policies
demonstrating an awareness of current affairs and Defence issues
applying communications ethics that are relevant to the audience and organisation
Evidence of Knowledge
Evidence required to demonstrate competence must satisfy all of the requirements of the elements and performance criteria. If not otherwise specified the depth of knowledge demonstrated must be appropriate to the job context of the candidate.
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
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
Assessment Conditions
Competency should be assessed in an actual workplace or in a simulated environment, with access to equipment and infrastructure appropriate to the outcome. Competency should be demonstrated over time to ensure the candidate is assessed across a variety of situations.
Assessors must satisfy the NVR/AQTF mandatory competency requirements for assessors.
Foundation Skills
The foundation skills demands of this unit have been mapped for alignment with the Australian Core Skills Framework (ACSF). The following tables outline the performance levels indicated for successful attainment of the unit.
Further information on ACSF and the foundation skills underpinning this unit can be found in the Foundation Skills Guide on the GSA website.
Competency Field
General