A piece of investigative journalism published at Newsroom has earned Baz Macdonald a prestigious award.
The Massey University postgraduate journalism diploma student was awarded the Bruce Jesson Emerging Journalism Award on October 31 for his investigation into New Zealand’s benefit system, and how it has struggled to keep pace with modern relationships – including de facto partnerships.
The article, Laws can’t keep up with modern relationships, was published in July.
Judges said the article “was exactly the kind of critical, informed, analytical and creative writing – which will contribute to public debate in New Zealand on an important issue – we want to foster.”
Macdonald’s victory this year is the fifth in a row for students from Massey University.
Speaking to the audience at a gala event in Auckland on acceptance of his $1000 prize, Macdonald said there was a lot of uncertainty to grapple with as a young journalist, but the award assured him of being on the right track.
“I am excited for my future as a journalist and am sure this award will help me find opportunities to continue down this path.”
* The Bruce Jesson award is named in honour of the late investigative journalist and is judged by a panel of industry and academic representatives.
