Public relations have evolved in remarkably similar way in New Zealand and Australia. Profession began in both countries when journalist, mostly men of course, began to conduct media relations on behalf of organizations and clients. In New Zealand this happened around year 1954 and in Australia around 1947-1949.
Australia and New Zealand were quite isolated from other countries at the beginning of their PR evolution. That has been one of the reasons why the pioneering public relations practitioners decided to circulate whatever books or papers they had among members of group. They also seek information actively, particularly from USA and Europe, because they were seen to be leading the development of the field of public relations. However, because of the isolated location, it was difficult to get hands on these newspapers and other publication. It could take months for releases to arrive by sea to Australia and that’s why they were often out of date when distributed.
First airmail and later technologies, including internet, email, databases, mobile telephones and personal computers have all had a significant impact on the development of public relations in Down Under. Internet has offered instant access not just for information but also to professional networks for geographically isolated New Zealand and Australia.
source
Sriramesh: The global public relations handbook, pages 121-124
Written by Sanna
All good things have to come to an end
16 years ago
