Labor’s Promise ‘First Turnaround for ABC in 20 Years’

The ALP has launched its election policy on the ABC, promising an additional $5 million in the final year of the triennial budget and $100 million in the next triennium.

Terry Laidler, a Friends of the ABC spokesperson, says if implemented, Labor’s promised increase will be the first turnaround in 20 years of decline for the national broadcaster.

“Importantly, Labor’s policy promises ABC independence from government interference.

“The ABC has suffered severely because the Howard Government’s sizable funding cuts ($66m) came on top of a steady decline in ABC funding since 1985-’86 under governments of both major political persuasions.

“While Friends of the ABC would like the ALP to have committed to a full and immediate restoration of funding, Labor’s promise is a significant step.

“Labor’s funding promise is the first sign of spring, in what has been a long cold winter for the ABC. It is an encouraging beginning.

“Since 1996, the Coalition Government has sought to undermine the ABC’s independence­ by stacking its Board, constantly attacking the broadcaster with accusations of political bias, and through the granting of targeted funds.

“Significantly, Labor’s policy promises independence for the ABC. It commits the ABC to introduce a new system of Board appointments that entails an independent merit based assessment process. Funding has been promised in a manner that does not seek to direct the ABC on how it must be used.

“Friends of the ABC is pleased that the major alternative government has recognised the importance of the independent national broadcaster to Australian life.

“In the interests of Australian democracy and culture, the Coalition must now reverse its destructive behaviour toward the ABC and join all other major parties in putting forward positive policies to ensure Australia’s independent and comprehensive national broadcaster thrives.”