Senate debates Committees
Environment and Communications References Committee; Reference
Sarah Hanson-Young SA, Australian Greens
3:53 pm
I move:
That the following matter be referred to the Environment and Communications References Committee for inquiry and report by 29 March 2019:
The allegations of political interference in the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), with particular reference to:
(a) the termination of ABC Managing Director, Ms Michelle Guthrie;
(b) the conduct of the Chair and the Board;
(c) the structure, composition and appointments of the ABC Board;
(d) the political influence or attempted influence of the Government over ABC editorial decision-making, including:
(i) outcomes of the Competitive Neutrality of the National Broadcaster Inquiry and Efficiency Review - ABC and SBS, and
(ii) the role of funding uncertainty in facilitating political influence;
(e) governance, legislative and funding options to strengthen the editorial independence and strength of the ABC to prosecute its charter obligations; and
(f) other related matters.
Anne Ruston SA, Liberal Party, Assistant Minister for International Development and the Pacific
I seek leave to make a short statement.
Anne Ruston SA, Liberal Party, Assistant Minister for International Development and the Pacific
The government will not oppose this motion. The government has always respected the independence of the ABC.
Scott Ryan President
The question is that business of the Senate notice of motion No. 2 be agreed to.