Editorial Guidelines & Code of Ethics
TorquePress
Editorial Guidelines & Code of Ethics
Last updated: November 2026
1. Introduction
These Editorial Guidelines outline the standards for all writers, contributors, and editors working with TorquePress.
TorquePress is an independent Australian motoring publication covering news, buyer’s guides, comparisons, ownership advice, automotive gear, and modified and enthusiast car culture.
Our goal is to publish content that is accurate, practical, and trustworthy for drivers researching, buying, and owning cars.
These guidelines are informed by the principles of:
The Media, Entertainment & Arts Alliance (MEAA) Journalist Code of Ethics
The Australian Press Council (APC) standards
2. Editorial Independence
TorquePress operates independently.
Editorial decisions are never influenced by advertisers, sponsors, or manufacturers.
While manufacturers may provide vehicles for testing or invite media to events, these arrangements do not affect editorial conclusions.
Sponsored or branded content will always be clearly labelled.
3. Accuracy & Fact Checking
All published content must be accurate, fair, and clearly presented.
Contributors are expected to:
Verify vehicle specifications and technical details
Confirm pricing where possible
Ensure quotes are accurate and in context
Use credible and reliable sources
- Link to primary sources (manufacturer specifications, ANCAP results, government notices) wherever possible
If errors are identified, they will be corrected promptly and transparently.
Headlines and social posts must reflect the article content accurately and avoid exaggeration.
4. Fairness & Responsible Coverage
TorquePress aims to provide balanced and respectful coverage of vehicles, manufacturers, and industry topics.
Our buyer’s guides, reviews and comparisons aim to show both the strengths and weaknesses of each vehicle for how Australians actually use them.
Content must not include discriminatory or offensive language relating to race, gender, religion, age, disability, sexuality, or other protected characteristics.
5. Advertising, Sponsorship & Conflicts of Interest
There must always be a clear separation between editorial content and advertising.
Sponsored content will be clearly labelled using terms such as:
Sponsored Content
Paid Partnership
Advertiser Feature
Contributors must disclose any financial or personal interests related to the subject of their content.
Advertisers and partners do not influence editorial reviews or conclusions.
6. Vehicle Review Standards
Where a TorquePress writer has driven a vehicle, the review says so and is based on that real-world experience. Where we haven’t driven a vehicle, the article is presented as a buyer’s guide, not a review, and is based on manufacturer information, owner feedback and published road tests, which are attributed. We never imply first-hand testing that didn’t happen.
Manufacturers may provide vehicles for testing or invite media to press events. This does not influence our editorial opinions.
Specifications, pricing, and availability are correct at the time of publication but may change. Readers should confirm details with manufacturers or dealers before making purchasing decisions.
Reviews represent the editorial opinion of the writer and are intended to help readers make informed decisions.
7. General Advice Disclaimer
Content relating to vehicle ownership, maintenance, modifications, or driving advice is provided for general informational purposes only.
Vehicle performance, maintenance requirements, costs, and regulations can vary depending on location, model specifications, and individual circumstances.
Vehicle modifications must comply with the vehicle standards and roadworthy requirements in your state or territory. Check with your state road authority or a licensed vehicle examiner before modifying a vehicle.
Readers should confirm details with manufacturers, mechanics, or relevant authorities before acting on information published on this website.
TorquePress accepts no liability for decisions made based on general advice content.
8. Originality & Attribution
All published work must be original.
Plagiarism or uncredited use of other publications’ work is not permitted.
Third-party data, quotes, statistics, and images must be properly attributed, and copyright laws must always be respected.
9. Photography & Media
Images and video must represent vehicles accurately and must not be manipulated in a misleading way.
Manufacturer-supplied media may be used when appropriate and will be credited where required.
Creative Commons images are used in line with their licence terms and credited to the original creator.
User-submitted photos or media will only be used with permission.
10. Social Media Conduct
Contributors representing TorquePress online must maintain professional and respectful behaviour.
Social media should not be used to:
Spread misinformation
Attack individuals or brands
Share confidential editorial material
Public communication should reflect TorquePress’ commitment to fair and responsible journalism.
11. AI Use in Content Creation
AI tools may be used to assist with research, drafting, or editing.
However:
All AI-assisted content must be reviewed by a human editor
Facts must be independently verified
AI must not fabricate quotes, reviews, or data
AI must not be used to impersonate people or brands
Contributors remain fully responsible for the accuracy and originality of their work.
12. Core Editorial Values
TorquePress is guided by five core principles:
Integrity
Editorial independence from commercial influence.
Accuracy
Clear, factual, and well-researched information.
Transparency
Clear disclosure of partnerships and sponsored content.
Fairness
Balanced coverage of vehicles and the automotive industry.
Practical Value
Content that helps readers make informed decisions about cars.
13. Corrections & Accountability
If an error is identified, it will be corrected promptly. Where a correction changes the substance of an article, we note the correction at the end of that article.
Readers can report errors or raise concerns at [email protected] or via our Contact page. All feedback is reviewed by the editor and may result in:
- Corrections
- Clarifications
- Content updates
14. Updates to These Guidelines
These Editorial Guidelines may be updated periodically to reflect changes in publishing standards, technology, or editorial practices.
