INCoV Recognition Branding Use Agreement

1. Purpose

This Agreement sets out the terms under which a recognised outlet may use the “Recognised by the Independent News Council of Victoria” logo and associated branding (the INCoV Recognition Badge).

The badge identifies an outlet as recognised by INCoV at the time of approval. It does not imply endorsement, certification, or regulatory status.

2. Eligibility to Use the Badge

The INCoV Recognition Badge may only be used by:

  • Outlets formally approved by the Independent News Council of Victoria

  • Outlets whose recognition status is current and has not been withdrawn

The right to use the badge is non-transferable and applies only to the approved outlet.

3. Permitted Use

Recognised outlets may display the badge:

  • On their website (including homepage, footer or About page)

  • In email signatures

  • On social media profiles

  • In press materials and promotional content

The badge must be used solely to indicate recognition by INCoV.

4. Prohibited Use

The badge must not be used:

  • In a way that implies endorsement of specific content, opinions or campaigns

  • In connection with political advertising or advocacy messaging

  • In a misleading or deceptive manner

  • By any entity other than the recognised outlet

  • After recognition has lapsed or been withdrawn

5. Branding Requirements

The badge must:

  • Be used in the official format provided by INCoV

  • Not be altered, recoloured, distorted, or redesigned

  • Maintain its original proportions and legibility

  • Not include additional text or elements within the badge

The badge may be resized to suit the design and layout of the outlet’s website or materials, provided that:

  • it is resized proportionally (height and width scaled equally)

  • the badge remains clear and legible

  • no distortion or modification occurs

Permitted accompanying wording includes:

INCoV Recognised Independent News Outlet

6. Nature of Recognition

Recognition by INCoV:

  • Confirms that the outlet met the Council’s eligibility criteria at the time of approval

  • Does not assess or guarantee editorial accuracy or quality

  • Does not represent certification, accreditation, or regulatory approval

  • Does not imply endorsement of any individual article, report or position

7. Misuse and Compliance

INCoV reserves the right to:

  • Request correction or removal of improper badge usage

  • Suspend or withdraw recognition where misuse occurs

  • Revoke permission to use the badge at its discretion

Recognised outlets agree to comply with any reasonable request relating to correct badge usage.

8. Withdrawal of Recognition

If recognition is withdrawn or lapses:

  • The outlet must remove the badge from all platforms within 7 days

  • Any reference to INCoV recognition must be updated or removed

Continued use after withdrawal is not permitted.

9. No Partnership or Endorsement

Use of the badge does not create:

  • A partnership

  • An agency relationship

  • An endorsement by INCoV

10. Agreement

By using the INCoV Recognition Badge, the recognised outlet agrees to comply with the terms set out in this Agreement.

11. Contact

For any questions regarding badge use or branding, please contact:

Independent News Council of Victoria

secretary@incov.org.au

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