Manufacturing a Crime Wave: The Gold Coast Saga
File version
Author(s)
Ewart, Jacqui
Griffith University Author(s)
Primary Supervisor
Other Supervisors
Editor(s)
Sue Turnbull
Date
Size
File type(s)
Location
License
Abstract
Crime waves make great headlines, and can be an ongoing source of stories for news media. In this article, we track the news media promotion of the spectre of a crime wave at Queensland's Gold Coast and the interplay between politics and policy responses to the media campaign. By analysing news media reports, government, local government and police-documented responses, we explore how the media framed this crime wave and the politically driven policy responses that were disproportionate to the reported (statistical) level of crime. Despite attempts by the Queensland Police Service to defuse the claims of an out-of-control crime problem, followed by its attempts at managing community responses, the local news media continued their campaign with significant consequences. Our findings are important for those charged with publicly managing responses to media-driven crime waves.
Journal Title
Media International Australia
Conference Title
Book Title
Edition
Volume
151
Issue
Thesis Type
Degree Program
School
DOI
Patent number
Funder(s)
Grant identifier(s)
Rights Statement
Rights Statement
Item Access Status
Note
Access the data
Related item(s)
Subject
Human society
Creative arts and writing
Language, communication and culture
Media studies