The Independence of the ABC is Under Attack

Internal and external influencers have compromised the independence of the ABC. 

The electoral term up to and including the 2016 election has highlighted how the ABC has fallen foul of a concerted and long running effort to influence and compromise the independence of the public broadcaster.

We call for a Senate led interrogation of the appointment process followed in recent appointments to the ABC board, the appointment of Managing Director Michelle Guthrie and the political and commercial affiliations of board members, senior executives and commentators.

In addition we seek clarity and revelation on issues raised in relation to the suppression of opinion of ABC employees prior to and subsequent to the 2013 election.

The open and flagrant attack on the integrity of Tony Jones by Malcolm Turnbull during the QandA program and the unashamed support of the Coalition position during the election campaign must also be examined. 

The people of Australia without reservation, must be able to depend on the public broadcaster