Young Australians who have grown up with the Internet no longer perceive value in paying for magazines and newspapers. The advertiser-driven model of street press and other free publications makes these titles increasingly relevant.

While traditional newsstand publications are losing circulation, the number of specialist free titles continues to grow.

There are more than 20 street press titles in Australia with major centres supporting at least two, and often three, weekly titles.  Regional centres such as Newcastle, Sunshine Coast, Geelong and Canberra have their own local music paper.

In the Gay/Lesbian market there are local community papers in every major centre as well as freely distributed, national papers.  Brisbane alone has three gay publications.

Specialist free fashion newspapers occupy another niche and are aimed at fashion leaders living in major cities.

Fashion magazine Fashion Journal is a free quarterliy aimed at fashion-conscious young women.  Brisbane’s Map Magazine is distributed free directly to 40,000 households every month

Free to street publications make sense to advertisers looking for an alternative to mass media channels. With large circulations and close targeting by age, and location, Street Press advertising is highly relevant for companies seeking to maximise advertising ROI.