BuzzFeed announces cuts to Australian newsrooms
Viral content site BuzzFeed has informed Australian staff that newsroom jobs will go following a week-long consultation period.
It comes after the new media publication's parent company last week announced plans to cut 200 jobs globally, or about 15 per cent of its total workforce.
Simon Crerar, who heads up BuzzFeed's local operations confirmed on Twitter that 11 positions in Australia are facing redundancy. Staff are concerned that this could mean the entire news division is wiped out.
BuzzFeed employs about 40 people in Australia across its 'Life', 'Buzz' and 'News' divisions.
A BuzzFeed spokesperson said it remains committed to having an Australian operation.
"We've built a strong brand, loyal audience, and growing business in Australia and BuzzFeed remains committed to building on that foundation for the long-term."
BuzzFeed established an Australian outpost in 2014. The outlet, originally known for its lists, quizzes and low brow celebrity fare, has since expanded into more traditional journalism.
More to come