Editorial Standards

These Editorial Standards apply to all content published by Mystique—whether in print, online, or on social media—and to all contributors and content creators associated with Mystique.

• All reasonable steps must be taken to ensure published material is factual, fair, and not misleading.
• Comment, opinion, and conjecture are permissible to provide context, but must not be presented as fact.
• All opinions should be supported by credible facts or context that substantiates the viewpoint.
• If an error is identified, it must be promptly corrected and noted clearly in an editor's note or footnote.
• Stories involving disputes must present a balanced view, reflecting all significant perspectives.
• Omission of key facts that distort the truth is prohibited.
• Efforts must be made to contact individuals or parties named adversely in stories before publication.
• Only credible and verifiable sources are to be used. Treat unverified claims with scepticism.
• Direct quotes must be faithful to the original speaker. Minor edits for clarity or removal of offensive or defamatory language are permitted but must not alter the intent.
• Plagiarism is unacceptable. All submissions are subject to plagiarism screening.
• Content sourced from social media must be independently verified before use, including quotes, claims, and images.
• Social media images must credit the original poster and platform, and only be used with appropriate rights.

Misrepresentation

• Contributors must not misrepresent themselves or use false identities.
• Deceptive practices to obtain content or imagery are not permitted.

Recording and Consent

• Covert recordings are prohibited. Audio and video recordings require full knowledge and consent of the subject.

• Anonymous sources should be used sparingly and only with proper verification.
• Corroborating evidence should be presented, and approval from the Editor-in-Chief is required.
• Promises of confidentiality must be honoured but considered against legal implications.

• Mystique does not pay for interviews or information.
• Gifts, discounts, or any advantage in exchange for coverage are prohibited.
• Sponsored content must be clearly marked as [PROMOTION].

• Writers must disclose any personal or financial interest related to their content.
• Affiliations with featured organisations must be made known to the editor and the audience.

• Private individuals' privacy must be respected. Public figures are subject to scrutiny in the public interest only.
• Publication of private information must be lawful and justified by public interest.
• Salacious content requires editorial review and justification.
• Publishing distressing personal information must be assessed with care.

• Do not harass, intimidate, or pressure people for interviews or imagery.
• Filming or photography without consent is only permitted in the public interest.
• Do not trespass to obtain content.

• Report on loss and trauma with sensitivity and respect.
• Avoid detailed descriptions of suicide method or location unless clearly justified by public interest.
• Include a support line such as Lifeline: 13 11 14 in all relevant articles.

No content should denigrate based on:

• Race
• Religion
• Sex or gender
• Sexual orientation or identity
• Ethnicity
• Marital status
• Age
• Disability or mental illness

Such characteristics may only be referenced where they are directly relevant to the story.

• Minor enhancements are acceptable but must not mislead.
• Significant alterations must be labelled 'Digitally Altered Image' and include original source attribution.

• Trigger warnings are used sparingly—for suicide, explicit language, or distressing themes.
• Headlines and preview images must clearly indicate the tone and subject matter of the article.

• Suspected breaches are investigated by the Editor-in-Chief.
• Confirmed breaches may result in disciplinary action or removal from publishing privileges.

Representation

• Contributors may identify with Mystique online, but must not damage the publication's reputation.
• Only authorised staff may post as Mystique on official channels.

Moderation

Immediately hide or delete content that includes:

• Hate speech
• Threats or incitement to harm
• Illegal or defamatory material

Repeat or extreme violators should be blocked, with screenshots saved and referred to the Editor-in-Chief.

Mystique supports spirited, respectful discussion. Persistent aggression or vilification may result in bans.