2018 ABC Annual Public Meeting

Home , ABC News at Noon, Damien Beaumont, David Astle, Geraldine Doogue, Greta Bradman, Jon Faine

Your Questions Answered Introduction from the Chairman Justin Milne

I want to thank everyone who took the time to send us questions as part of our first Annual Public Meeting (APM). We are pleased to publish our responses to all of your questions and provide relevant information about the issues that matter to you. The Annual Public Meeting provided us with a clear way to engage with you, our audience and owners. We would like to continue the conversation, and will create the opportunity for you to submit more questions later this year. We’re sorry that we didn’t have more time for you to ask questions live during the APM. Some audience members have expressed their disappointment that they were not given the opportunity to stand up and ask their question directly at the APM. If you do feel this way, please keep a look out for our ABC Open House events later this year where you will have a chance to ask questions in a town hall style meeting at your local ABC office in capital cities and major regional locations. Thank you again for your commitment and passion for the ABC. We look forward to continuing the conversation with you throughout the year. And if you are not already part of our Your Space feedback group please register1 so we can hear from you.

Yours sincerely,

Justin Milne ABC Chairman

1 https://www.abcyourspace.net.au/Portal/default.aspx

ii AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Contents

ABC Policy 1 Radio 17 Digital 56 News/ Journalism 62 Political/ Social Topics 80 Programming 98 Quality 130 Local and Regional Access/ Content 140 Other Topics 153

iii AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED ABC Policy

Michael from Victoria asked: ABC Comedy seems like a good initiative but it seems to be lacking proper funding, resources and publicity to succeed. Would funds be better spent instead on focusing on boosting original comedy on the main ABC channel?

ABC:

Increasingly audiences are finding a lot of content online, and we made a strategic decision to broaden the remit of the digital channel on TV and offer more opportunities for Australians on ABC COMEDY. It is much more than just a new look for ABC2. It’s a whole new content offering across multiple platforms and audience touchpoints, including TV, digital, online and audio. We feel it is an investment and commitment to original Australian comedy and entertainment, ABC COMEDY cre- ates more opportunities to bring the best comedy and entertainment to our audiences.

John from the Australian Capital Territory asked: The ABC’s biggest weakness is its reliance on government funding. Progressive governments see the advantage of an unfettered media, and are happy to fund one. But with today’s resurgence of more restrictive government, what are your expectations into the future?

ABC:

On the contrary, our position as a publicly funded broadcaster is our greatest strength. It means we can operate independently, without fear or favour and adhere to a robust set of editorial policies that ensure Australians can and should expect the highest broadcast standards from us. And as the commercial media model becomes increasingly challenged, our position as a public broadcaster means we can deliver the strong and distinct voice Australians need to support their democracy.

Our expectations for the future are that the ABC will remain fully funded so it can

1 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED ABC Policy continue to provide these wide range of services. A well-funded ABC is a strong ABC.

Colleen from Victoria asked: How can we ensure political interference in the operations of the ABC is kept at bay?

ABC:

The ABC Charter enshrines the independence of the ABC. The Government of the day can share its views with the ABC, but has no legislative framework to interfere in the running of the ABC.

Rebekah from Queensland asked: I’d like to know about the history involved with developing the kind of employment policies that are enabling of ABC employees, to be making viable reporting about sexual abuse in other media contexts. Have women always felt safe in ABC employment contexts, and if not, what changed, and how?

ABC:

The ABC has developed and implemented strong policies and practices to deal with such matters and we take any allegation of harassment very seriously and do not condone or tolerate any inappropriate behaviour. All ABC employees are made aware of and must abide by our discrimination, bullying and harassment policy at all times.

Recently we have expanded these policies with the introduction of a peer scheme to allow our employees more opportunity to raise issues within a safe framework. We are constantly reviewing and updating these policies and processes to ensure they provide the correct level of support.

2 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED ABC Policy

Natalie from New South Wales asked: Will the ABC be investing in more locally produced television drama?

ABC:

Yes. In 2018 the ABC plans to increase its local production spend by 18 per cent with the majority of that going to Australian Independent Production Companies. Drama will play a significant role in this investment in content.

Nic from Victoria asked: Why doesn’t the ABC fully resource broadcasting into the Pacific islands through Radio Australia? Why has the ABC closed shortwave broadcasts to outlying islands that don’t have internet access, reduced the length of the flagship “Pacific Beat” program, closed the NZ bureau, failed to appoint a full time Pacific correspondent, shut down French language broadcasting and failed to erect new FM transmitters promised in 2016?

ABC:

The ABC ceased its shortwave transmission service in the Northern Territory and to international audiences on 31 January 2017. The move was in line with the national broadcaster’s commitment to dispense with outdated technology and to expand its digital content offerings including DAB+ digital radio, online and mobile services, together with FM services for international audiences. Savings resulting from decommissioning the service have been reinvested in a more robust FM transmitter network and an expanded content offering for the region that will include English and in-language audio content. The ABC remains confident the reinvestment from closing international shortwave services will maximise the ABC’s broadcast capabilities in the region.

3 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED ABC Policy

Carol from Adelaide asked: After the recent allegations regarding Craig MacLachlan to show that he is starring in was removed from ABC iview pending investigations. Many people consider it a commendable move. My question is, Was the decision in line with an existing policy or given the changing climate where more women are coming forward, is it a policy that is in development and available to the public? thank you

ABC:

Following allegations against The Doctor Blake Mysteries principal cast member Craig McLachlan and a related police investigation, the ABC has made the decision to withdraw from iview series five of the program and the telemovie length final episode, both broadcast in 2017.

A repeat broadcast of The Doctor Blake telemovie scheduled for 25 January was also withdrawn. These editorial decisions are made on a case by case basis considering all of the information available at the time.

Elaine from Queensland asked: (1) What security can we have that our excellent ABC programs will be funded into the future without any ‘cuts’ and (2) will be also be extended to provide an even better service.

ABC:

As the Managing Director Michelle Guthrie said in her address at the APM, the ABC is deeply committed to the programs Australians have always loved and expected from the ABC, programs that are of high quality, distinctive and Australian. The Investing In Audiences strategy is based on this commitment and guarantees the ABC is focussed on decisions that ensure the best outcomes for its audiences.

4 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED ABC Policy

Neville from Victoria asked: To protect the independence of the ABC, is there a need for the ABC to be funded differently to existing budget allocations?

ABC:

No. The ABC Charter enshrines the independence of the ABC. The Government of the day can share its views with the ABC, but has no legislative framework to interfere in the running of the ABC.

Liz from Victoria asked: In relation to specialist content, it is clear that ABC management determines that specific social issue topics are to be embedded across all or most scheduled radio programs in any week and are aimed at changing public opinion. For example, topics selected usually relate to indigenous issues, the republic, public expenditure on selected social welfare measures, changes to prevailing legislation aimed at changing existing core social pillars. These are given extremely high broadcasting time on radio programming including news broadcasts and are both repetitive and tiresome as they proselytise. Many listeners no longer bother tuning in as they do not want to be subjected to endless haranguing. This is the cause of plummeting ratings across the full programming range. Where in the ABC Charter does management have the authority to exploit public funding for self-serving purposes?

ABC:

ABC Management does not direct programs to cover certain topics, and there is no agenda to proselytise in order to change social pillars. Our programs have a responsibility to explore issues of interest and importance to their audiences.

5 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED ABC Policy

The ABC is governed by the ABC Act, which includes a Charter setting out our functions. These include: . Providing “innovative and comprehensive” broadcasting; . Contributing to a “sense of national identity”; . Informing and entertaining, while also reflecting cultural diversity; and . Broadcasting “programs of an educational nature”. The ABC Act also enshrines the importance of the “independence and integrity” of the ABC and the need to ensure its presentation of news and information is accurate and impartial.

The ABC takes these responsibilities very seriously, which is why the ABC Board has approved a set of Editorial Policies that set out the principles and standards we have in place to ensure our independence and integrity. We train our staff regularly in these policies, we review our performance regularly, and we invite all Australians to contact us if they think we have failed to meet those standards.

Peter from Victoria asked: Why would Michelle Guthrie accept a position that reflects the Coalitions paranoia of the independence of the ABC and follow their instructions to cut, slash and burn the all levels of the ABC from Management through to Television and Radio services/programming including Management.?

ABC:

The ABC’s current strategy is focussed on identifying better use of budget from an audience point of view and reducing duplication and inefficiencies in support services. All savings are re-directed into content areas to ensure audiences can continue to benefit from the distinct ABC content they expect.

6 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED ABC Policy

Sharyn from New South Wales asked: Will the ABC’s current investment in news journalism be diminished in any way - according to financial or other performance indicator?

ABC:

No. The ABC’s commitment to in-depth and investigative journalism has never been stronger. In addition to the work of TV and radio programs such as Four Corners, 7.30, AM, PM and Background Briefing, as well as online, ABC NEWS is also currently forming ABC Investigations, Australia’s largest dedicated daily investigative team, which will include 10 top investigative reporters working across programs and platforms, uncovering exclusive stories and breaking new ground on big issues. It has also launched the Specialist Reporting Team, a team of reporters and producers which will bring in-depth, expert reporting to core rounds including: Technology & Science; Regional Communities; Consumer Affairs; Education; Health; Arts, Culture & Entertainment; Social Affairs; and Indigenous. Late last year ABC NEWS also launched three new programs: Matter of Fact. National Wrap and a 10.30pm news bulletin.

Rhonda from Western Australia asked: Will the ABC improve funding to Radio National? It is one of the few remaining places where news, policy, reflections and in-depth items are published. The quality of Radio National is vitally important to informing Australia on a wider range of perspectives than news event reporting can provide. Depth of knowledge rather than repetition of the opinions of commentators is vital to expand as other media withdraws from wider discussions. Could Radio National have increased funding and an expansion of range of information analysed?

ABC:

We agree that the quality of RN is vitally important in informing Australians on a wide range of perspectives. There have been no cuts to the RN budget. We have

7 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED ABC Policy looked at ways in which to extend the range and scope of RN under current bud- gets and resources. We have recently restructured our content teams across the ABC and this will reap many benefits for RN and its audience mainly through the extended collaboration with specialist content makers and broadcasters from other areas of the corporation. RN is also seeking to expand its partnerships with cultural organisations and institutions to provide more co-funding for specialist content.

Janet from Victoria asked: How can the ABC be protected from the vagaries of successive governments regarding funding, content, reporting and the appointment of board members who may not be independent? Recently on a trip to the UK I became aware that the BBC is funded by compulsory TV licence fees which may explain the breadth and quality of its service and programming. Would the reintroduction of these in Australia help to overcome these?

ABC:

The ABC Charter enshrines the independence of the ABC. The Government of the day can share its views with the ABC, but has no legislative framework to interfere in the running of the ABC. The ABC relies on funding from the Commonwealth.

Questions about broadcast licenses are best directed to the Government, namely the Department of Communications and the Arts.

Shane from Tasmania asked: Do staff have confidence in their managing director?

ABC:

Yes. The ABC Managing Director Michelle Guthrie takes every opportunity to engage with the ABC’s people and hear their views on how the broadcaster is being run. Workshops and briefings are always constructive and demonstrate a high level

8 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED ABC Policy of respect for Michelle and the Leadership Team. The recent ABC Engagement survey showed that 46% of employees are engaged with ABC management, so clearly we have more work to do to improve this result.

Stan from Victoria asked: Does the ABC actively seek to increase its funding beyond that provided by Government and which (if any) options are being considered?

ABC:

The ABC negotiates its funding envelope on a triennial basis to ensure continuation of services. The funding application process is always entered by the ABC with a view to determining the best possible funding outcomes for the ABC and its audiences.

David from New South Wales asked: Improving the electorate’ media literacy is the best defence against the increasing amount of disinformation and ‘fake news’. Will the ABC be investing in this kind of public media education?

ABC:

The ABC will continue to invest in and produce the highest quality content our audiences expect from us. And yes, we are currently developing a media literacy project to be announced later this year.

Susan from South Australia asked: With significant funding cuts to the ABC over the past few years and calls for more Australian content on TV, what strategies and plans has the ABC got to reinvigorate ABC 1 TV programming with Australian

9 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED ABC Policy stories made by Australian producers? Currently its heavy reliance on BBC series and repeats thereof (Midsummer Murders, QI, Antique Roadshow, Grand Design etc) is alienating viewers.

ABC:

In 2018 the ABC plans to increase its Australian content spend by 18 per cent with the majority of that going to Australian Independent Production Companies.

Rex from New South Wales asked: What ABC assets are slated for sale in the next 5 years. How will that affect the ABC’s ability to continue to provide and maintain the current suite of programs and services.

ABC:

The ABC only comments on potential asset sales when appropriate.

Deanne from Queensland asked: While being free of politicians why are they able to strip My ABC of finance and dictate regards programs?

ABC:

The ABC Charter enshrines the independence of the ABC. The Government of the day can share its views with the ABC, but has no legislative framework to interfere in the running of the ABC.

Kate from New South Wales asked: How does the ABC intend to break the mould as a public broadcaster while maintaining quality and broadening its appeal to a wider audience? Is it just a budget question or should we the audience be

10 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED ABC Policy lobbying harder on its behalf?

ABC:

The ABC matters more than ever before as Australians are increasingly faced with programming that is generic and superficial. Audiences are having to make choices in a fragmented media landscape. And there is a crying need for depth, independence, and critical analysis. The ABC is in a unique position to provide a unifying and relevant role for our communities.

We’ve continued to break new ground in terms of the way we create and deliver content by adding multiple new television, radio and digital platforms. And we’ve increased our investment in quality Australian programs. Back in 1987, the ABC cost each Australian eight cents a day. In 1987 dollar terms it’s now four cents a day. These efficiencies have been achieved by cutting back on managers and travel, reviewing support services, and lowering transmission and distribution costs. Gov- ernments change and so will our audiences. But we exist to serve you, so if you feel strongly about us, show your support by joining the Friends of the ABC2

Mary from Queensland asked: Why does the government cut the budget for the ABC so drastically when all of Australia loves our ABC? How can we set in law that the Government can’t stuff around with the ABC budget? It needs to be sacrosant.!!

ABC:

These are questions more suitably answered by the Government.

Jane from Victoria asked: What is ABC management going to do to ensure that the Australian

2 http://www.fabc.org.au/

11 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED ABC Policy public can always have access to fair, balanced and unbiased analysis and reporting (as Dame Leonie Kramer said: ‘without fear or favour’) regardless of threats of funding cuts or legal action from interest groups that may not wish to be investigated.

ABC:

The ABC Charter and our Editorial Policies ensure the ABC’s delivers to audiences the fair and balanced reporting expected of it, without fear or favour. The Charter and Editorial Policies, together with the professionalism and dedication of our journalists, are the reason most Australians view the ABC as their most trusted source of news.

Brad from Queensland asked: How does the ABC distance itself from the Government so that it represents the people (in particular the oppressed groups), without succumbing to pressure to conform to political ideology that is very often racist, homophobic and bigoted? In other words, is there more that could be said or done, were it not for the funding from the government to run ABC?

ABC:

The ABC Charter enshrines the independence of the ABC. The Government of the day can share its views with the ABC, but has no legislative framework to interfere in the running of the ABC.

Bill from the Australian Capital Territory asked: Am I correct in linking my perception that there has been an increase in repeated broadcasting of older British crime dramas with Government reduction of ABC funding?

12 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED ABC Policy

ABC:

No, there has not been an increase in BBC content on the ABC. And in 2018 the ABC plans to increase its Australian content spend by 18 per cent with the majority of that going to Australian Independent Production Companies.

Suzanne from Queensland asked: How will the ABC ensure that regional Australians have ongoing access to the ABC given the increasing online content and the issues in regional Australia with telecommunications?

ABC:

The ABC’s commitment to rural and regional audiences remains stronger than ever. Our investment in rural and regional services through the Connecting Communities initiative represents the biggest single investment in regional news and information in the ABC’s history. This investment means more live coverage from our regional bureaux, more regional coverage on weekends and the launch of ABC Weather to expand our weather coverage by exploring the science behind patterns and events.

Along with our commitment to local news services on both radio and TV, programs like Landline, Back Roads, Gardening Australia and Catalyst will provide regional audiences with the right mix of entertainment and information. And of course, triple J, Unearthed and One Night Stand ensure all our audiences in rural and regional Australia are catered to.

Rosemary from New South Wales asked: The most important role the ABC has is to remain a strong and independent voice, which is necessary to preserve a healthy democracy. What is the ABC doing to lobby for an increased budget not tied to the whims or political agendas of changing governments?

13 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED ABC Policy

ABC:

The ABC Charter enshrines the independence of the ABC. The Government of the day can share its views with the ABC, but has no legislative framework to interfere in the running of the ABC.

Grant from our Sydney audience asked: The ABC 2.0 strategy would appear sound in the converging media industry globally. What is the timescale and budget allocation for this major transformation at all levels of the organisation nationally.

ABC:

ABC 2.0 is a long-term project for the ABC. We look forward to updating audiences on our progress later this year.

Kate from our Sydney audience asked: Given the loss of so many qualified journalists due to program cutbacks and restructure on free to air, what makes management think this will keep or increase the audience? Under David Hill, when funding was cut, he mounted a successful 8c a day campaign. Has management given thought to standing up to the Government rather than capitulate?

ABC:

The independence of the ABC is highly valued and strongly protected by its management. It is the bedrock for everything the ABC does and we strive to act independently of any political or commercial pressure as we have always done.

14 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED ABC Policy

Frank from our Sydney audience asked: Why won’t the ABC listen to the people of the remote areas of Australia and the Pacific and turn back on Radio Australia’s iconic shortwave broadcasts?

ABC:

Sue from our Launceston audience asked: What is the ABCs commitment to continue to show and support Australian content?

ABC:

We are investing in content to ensure that the ABC remains the source of Australian stories across all platforms. We are investing in content that: . is produced in partnership with the independent production sector. These collaborations create jobs and ensure Australian voices and stories remain strong and vibrant . is more unique across all genres . addresses the needs of younger Australians

15 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED ABC Policy

. tells more stories from rural regional Australia, and enhances the quality of the ABC’s output investing in local news and events

16 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Radio

Harry from New South Wales asked: My deep concern is that the ABC restructure will impact adversely on RN. How can you assure us that neither programming nor funding will be affected by the restructure?

ABC:

We are 100% committed to ensuring the continued success of RN as a specialist network and to safeguard its role as the source of important national conversations. While the ABC has undergone a content reorganisation, this has not impacted on RN’s schedule. RN’s 2018 schedule reaffirms our commitment to the current schedule along with some new shows including The Hub suite – focusing on the stage; books; arts and screen across the week - all are specialist programs aimed at specialist audiences. It’s that RN excels at and what it will continue to do now and into the future.

We have made no budget cuts to RN this year. The restructure did not affect RN’s budget. It was designed to realign the ABC’s content teams across all our platforms to enable better collaboration between content makers that will benefit all our audiences, including those who listen to RN.

Lynne from the Australian Capital Territory asked: What is the reason for the removal of Genevieve Jacobs on ABC radio Canberra and can this decision be reversed?

ABC:

We made a number of changes to our presenter line-ups across the country, as we do each year. Genevieve has filled an important slot in the Canberra line-up for 10 years. We felt it was time for a change and to introduce some new voices in the Capital. No, we are not looking at reversing this decision.

17 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Radio

Leslie from New South Wales asked: G’day, I wake up and go to sleep listening to 702, drive home and everywhere else listening to Classic FM. What has happened to SCOSE? It would appear that it has disappeared, apart from Macca and the Classic presenters. For example, 2017 was a year, not a jeer. Even the news readers. Come on, you can do better.

ABC:

The spirit and purpose of SCOSE is still alive and well having been replaced with the ABC Language committee, which meets monthly. You can also find this work on ABC Pronounce3 where you can also make a suggestion. This committee discusses language issues and usage, including examples/complaints provided by audience members. These are then circulated to employees in a monthly report which works through examples to provide advice on language usage to employees. The meeting is convened by the ABC’s Language Advisor (Tiger Webb) and also attended by a linguistics expert, Emeritus Professor Pam Peters (she used to edit the Macquarie Dictionary).

Edward from New South Wales asked: My question to the ABC Board and Management relates to the new form music programme publication method for ABC Classic FM. First congratulations to the team who designed and developed the new ABC Classic FM site. As an avid listener with a passion for the classical music broadcast by ABC Classic FM the Spotify and You Tube links which are now provided are useful to learn more about a favourite or new music item. I am unclear why the new form of programming is “drip fed” to listeners as broadcast happens rather than published prior.

3 http://www2b.abc.net.au/abcpronunciation/

18 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Radio

I (and I’m sure many other listeners) plan our music listening ahead of time and appreciate knowing what will be broadcast later that day or over the next few days. At the moment this option has been taken away with the new form of ‘live time’ program publication and my question: When will publication of the ‘forward programme’ for ABC Classic FM music broadcasts re-commence so that listeners can plan their ‘musical journeys’ ahead of time rather than ‘turn up’ at the station hoping that there might be ‘something of interest coming up next’?

ABC:

We are working to update our listings information to include artist names, album artwork and more accurate links to Spotify and YouTube. We are also working on a fix for the faults that are leading to duplication and missing listings information as well as improving upcoming concerts information so we can provide detailed schedules of future events and programming highlights.

We are not looking to include detailed advanced programming (i.e. every track, as in the past) to allow for greater programming flexibility. Our presenters and (human) programmers need the ability to change their track listings to respond to events of the day, the news agenda or to audience response to works just played. We know that most visitors to our listings site use the information to find out what they’re listening to now, or what they’ve just heard.

Warrick from Victoria asked: Why is Classic FM being denigrated by digital systems and poorly prepared announcing staff?

ABC:

We do not believe ABC Classic FM is being denigrated on any level. This year we have announced a stronger focus on digital content, including the investment in

19 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Radio a new, four-person digital team, to reflect the increasing diversity of ways in which our audiences are enjoying our content. We have a strong and very loyal audience following who continue to listen via AM and FM radio, and we will continue to serve them with the quality broadcast content they have come to expect. This year, for example, we are doing more to promote Australian concerts with the launch of weekly live broadcasts (Classic Live). We’ve introduced a daily concert every weekday (Lunchtime Concert) and we’ve launched a whole new series of weekday afternoon programming hosted by both well-known and new ABC Classic FM presenters, with a focus on connecting our audience’s passion for classical music with the other passions in their lives such as travel and history. But we also have a responsibility to audiences who come to ABC Classic FM via different platforms – online and on social media. Our new website is in its starting phase and we are working hard to develop it as an educational and community hub for classical music lovers all over Australia.

Penn from New South Wales asked: Why have you made changes to Classic FM that have resulted in many loyal fans no longer tuning in? These changes include no longer having music listings so now people can’t check to see what will be played ahead of time making planning the day around Classic FM no longer possible; getting rid of excellent programs and programmers such as Graham Abbott with Keys to Music, and Philip Sammitz who was brilliant on breakfast Classic FM. Why does it seem as if you are sacrificing musical diversity and detailed information about the music for pre-programmed digitalised music? Is this because of a deal you have with Spotify? Why risk losing many of your most loyal followers with changes that won’t necessarily gain you a wider audience, but are guaranteed to upset your long-standing fans? Do you realise that many people prefer listening to the radio rather than listening through headphones on a digital device?

20 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Radio

ABC:

James from the Northern Territory asked: The ABC has local radio stations peppered around the big brown land, with varying personalities and skills amongst the presenters and producers. Please can the ABC consider running some sort of exchange programme by which the producers and presenters gain short term exposure to a larger/smaller station? Imagine what small station producers could learn in the big smoke, what tips city producers could give to regional staff, the thrill a country presenter would get presenting to a city, and the audience reaction to a ‘celebrity’ presenter who dropped in to the bush?

ABC:

Jenny from Victoria asked: As a regular listener of Radio National, how do you see its future? Shall we continue the decline into podcasting and repeats which means I sometimes hear shows up to 4 times, or shall we also see the intrinsic

21 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Radio complex value in real time communication. It should not be a matter of real time = local radio, radio national is for podcasts.

ABC:

We are 100% committed to ensuring the continued success of RN as specialist network and to safeguard its role as the source of important national conversations. We have made no budget cuts to RN this year and have introduced some new programming such as The Hub, which looks at different areas of the Arts each weekday. We reduced repeats on RN in April of 2017 from four plays to three for some specialist highly produced and expensive programs made in RN. Daily current affairs shows like Breakfast and Drive are not repeated.

Most RN specialist programs are repeated twice in a 24/7 schedule- one of the repeats is in the overnight schedule between midnight and 6am.

Alison from South Australia asked: Will ABC Classic FM reinstate advance music listings for its many dedicated followers who plan their listening?

ABC:

22 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Radio

Vanda from Victoria asked: I am as yet unaware of an explanation how axing the 4 music programs The Inside Sleeve, The Live Set, The Daily Planet, The Rhythm Divine from RN will make the ABC stronger. These programs were really the only provision for folk / roots and less commercial music in the whole media spectrum. Surely the provision of less commercial areas is the precise function of the ABC.

ABC:

RN is the home of big thinking, big ideas, and the national conversation. As such, the music shows on RN are increasingly seen as outliers, nor are they particularly well suited to a service that has an AM-dominant footprint.

As a result, we have consolidated our CD-based music on our specialist music stations – triple j and Double J and are strengthening the contemporary music programming teams.

RN’s flagship music (discussion) program, The Music Show, still remains on the network.

Audiences have quickly taken to Double J and DAB+ Digital Radio’s growth is strong, with more than 1.5 million Australians in capital cities listening every week.

RN breakfast and Drive feature musicians on a regular basis.

Myf Warhust has moved from Double J to Local Radio with her new music-based national show, from 12.30 pm – 2.00 pm weekdays.

Steve from Tasmania asked: Why does ABC management appear to be hell bent on making the simple listening to RN, on the radio, increasingly tedious? Every opportunity now seems to be taken to drill listeners into pod casts and “Listen” with extra programs and content continually pushed, whilst poor old radio listeners are increasingly subjected to program

23 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Radio reductions and repeats and the complete axing of music? Experts recently quoted by Download This Show all agreed that alienating your existing customers, in an effort to bring on new, is simply bad practise. Please comment.

ABC:

We are 100% committed to ensuring the continued success of RN as specialist network and to safeguard its role as the source of important national conversations.

We announced RN’s 2018 schedule recently and in that announcement, we reaffirmed our commitment to the current schedule along with some new shows including The Hub suite – focusing on the stage, books, arts and screen across the week. All these are specialist programs aimed at specialist audiences. It is what RN excels at and what it will continue to do now and into the future.

While we do introduce new content regularly, RN still delivers all your regular favourites programs and presenters including Robyn Williams, Norman Swan, Geraldine Doogue, Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas who all have incredible depth and insights into their specialist broadcast fields. Many listeners ask us why didn’t you tell me about this great podcast. So it is important for us to balance our commitment to existing programs with audiences who also want to discover new programs on digital.

Colin from New South Wales asked: Why is it necessary to de-construct RN? Content will suffer.

ABC:

We have not deconstructed RN. Almost all of the programs and presenters you know and love are still a part of the network. We are 100% committed to ensuring the continued success of RN as specialist network and to safeguard its role as the source of important national conversations.

We announced RN’s 2018 schedule recently and in that announcement, we

24 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Radio reaffirmed our commitment to the current schedule along with some new shows including The Hub suite – focusing on the stage, books, arts and screen across the week. All these are specialist programs aimed at specialist audiences. It is what RN excels at and what it will continue to do now and into the future.

Peter from Victoria asked: Why has the long-standing practice of showing comprehensive details of all pieces played on ABC Classic FM, ie the name of the piece including opus number, composer name, performer information (soloist where relevant, conductor and accompanying musicians or orchestra) and recording details which used to be found in an easily accessible tab headed Music Listings been replaced by a greatly inferior product called Recently played? This new product appears to be prepared by people who appear not to know much about Western Art Music. Most entries contain the name of the piece, the name of the composer and the title of the album on which is recorded. There are no performer details and no recoding catalogue details. Moreover, this screen does not update. It remains on the same listing that was showing when it was first opened. Refreshing the screen does not produce and update. In order to see updates, one has to leave the screen and come back to it. In any case, it is not possible to see listings for future times in the day. Why was an excellent product replaced by an inferior one?

ABC:

We are not looking to include detailed advanced programming (i.e. every track, as in the past) to allow for greater programming flexibility. Our presenters and (human)

25 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Radio programmers need the ability to change their track listings to respond to events of the day, the news agenda or to audience response to works just played. We know that most visitors to our listings site use the information to find out what they’re listening to now, or what they’ve just heard.

David from South Australia asked: Radio National is a national treasure. It has in the past pursued the debate and dissemination of ideas over a remarkably broad spectrum. This does not necessarily equate to finding the largest audience. Recent announcements regarding future RN programming would suggest a move from the former to the latter. Is this happening?

ABC:

We agree that Radio National is a national treasure. We are 100% committed to ensuring the continued success of RN as specialist network and to safeguard its role as the source of important national conversations.

Sandra from Western Australia asked: What does the ABC intend to achieve by hollowing out its formerly excellent ABC Classic FM, by getting rid of its best-informed presenters - particularly Graham Abbott, depriving listeners of its forthcoming

26 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Radio listings (the excuse that they had some mistakes is pathetic and anyway preferable to no advance information at all), and infantilising the overall level of presentation and programming?

ABC:

We disagree that ABC Classic FM has been hollowed out. The network still includes many of its most experienced and knowledgeable presenters all of whom are supported by a highly qualified team of music programmers who advise on music selection and pronunciation. Our presenters have literally hundreds of years of broadcast experience between them. This week Mairi Nicolson celebrated 40 years on air. Margaret Throsby marked 50 years on air last year, and there are other long-standing and popular presenters such as Christopher Lawrence, Stephen Watkins and Damien Beaumont. Our newer presenters such as Russell Torrance, Greta Bradman, Alice Keath and Vanessa Hughes are all talented broadcasters and exceptional musicians in their own right, who have received overwhelmingly positive responses from audiences. We are working to update our listings information to include artist names, album artwork and more accurate links to Spotify and YouTube. We are also working on a fix for the faults that are leading to duplication and missing listings information as well as improving upcoming concerts information so we can provide detailed schedules of future events and programming highlights. Technology and the way our audience uses it has changed substantially in the 15 years since we started broadcasting Keys to Music. Keys to Music was the only educational content on Classic FM. We can now use to technology to provide a much greater range of educational content that reaches more Australians.

Peter from Queensland asked: In the light of universal complaints from listeners, why does Radio FM Classic refuse to reinstate advance listings on its website.

ABC:

We are working to update our listings information to include artist names, album

27 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Radio artwork and more accurate links to Spotify and YouTube. We are also working on a fix for the faults that are leading to duplication and missing listings information as well as improving upcoming concerts information so we can provide detailed schedules of future events and programming highlights.

Nathaniel from New South Wales asked: Regarding Classic FM: how is it justifiable to remove both the programme listings, and the majority of the news? For years, Classic FM has been a bridge between so called ‘high culture’, so that the lower, middle, and upper classes can all experience classical music in a way that is often restricted to the mobile upper-class. It is a cultural experience and education, furthered by the simple availability of the programme, so that listeners can have further access. The News makes it one of the most practical stations on air, as so many of us have it on near to twenty-four hours a day. It isn’t fair or just to remove these culturally significant AND practical components that has been treasured since the ‘70s.

ABC:

In 2018, Classic FM removed the news bulletin at 12 noon, because the Mornings program now runs from 10 am to 1 pm (instead of finishing at noon, as it did in 2017). On weekdays there are still bulletins at 6 am, 7 am, 8 am, 9 am, 4 pm, 5 pm, 6 pm and 7 pm.

28 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Radio

John from New South Wales asked: Why has Radio National been turned into the Repeating network, particularly that repeats can be readily heard on the ABC Listen application. Does this reflect a severe diminution of funds for RN?

ABC:

We schedule repeats as a deliberate strategy to ensure that audience members with different patterns to their day still get to listen to the programs. We reduced repeats on RN in April of 2017 from four plays to three for some specialist highly produced and expensive programs made in RN. Daily current affairs shows like Breakfast and Drive are not repeated.

Most RN specialist programs are repeated twice in a 24/7 schedule- one of the repeats is in the overnight schedule between midnight and 6am.

While ABC Listen is available for audiences to hear programs they have missed, we also need to serve audience members who prefer to listen to their RN content on radio rather than digital.

Joyce from Victoria asked: This year, ABC Radio is cutting their political & cultural analysis and adding more music programs. Is there an evidence-based reason for this “dumbing down” or is it an attempt to attract a younger audience that never listen to radio?

ABC:

The number of repeats fluctuate year by year – and have increased only very slightly – five per cent across the last seven years or so. We still have 56 programs weekly exclusive to RN.

29 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Radio

Maree from South Australia asked: Radio National seems to be making a big effort to attract young listeners, at the expense of traditional RN fans. Considering that our population is rapidly aging, and considering youth already have countless options for their listening pleasure, isn’t the ABC abandoning its base for rewards unlikely to come?

ABC:

We have made very little changes to the program schedule and presenter line-up on Radio National this year. All the regular programs and presenters are still with the network including Norman Swan, Geraldine Doogue and Phillip Adams, along with Fran Kelly in the mornings and Patricia Karvelas in Drive. We are well aware that we need to maintain our current loyal listening audience as well as attracting new audiences. Any changes we are making to the network are done slowly and with much thought and consideration of audience interests and needs.

Joan from New South Wales asked: When will the daily music listings for ABCFM be reinstated?

ABC:

Peter from Queensland asked: Why does television programming contain so much of the crime genre? Why are there so few quality documentaries shown? This used to be a

30 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Radio real strength of ABC TV. The latest “Catalyst” programs prove that it can still be done. Could the strength of signal for ABC Classic FM be increased.? Although I live in a major regional centre, reception is poor. I noticed this problem to a lesser extent when I lived in a capital city.

ABC:

Regarding the strength of the ABC Classic FM signal in regional areas. This differs in each region depending on where you are located and the distance from the transmitter. Alternative listening options include via the ABC Classic FM live stream via abc.net.au or through the ABC Listen App.

John from New South Wales asked: 1. Why have the ABC current affairs programs at lunchtime and in the evenings, been reduced to half an hour? 2. Has the ABC forgotten its role as a free to air broadcaster? I live in the country and internet is both difficult and expensive. Podcasts are not a reasonable alternative, particularly when the mid-morning programs are repeated mid-afternoon and then damn it, again with “best of” on the weekend! Why can’t those podcast programs be broadcast free to air? 3. Why are so many programs advertised as podcasts eg Boyer lectures & not advertised with broadcast times, assuming they were broadcast?

ABC:

31 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Radio analysis programs, particularly in the early evening. This change brings the programs into line with the 30-mintue morning edition of AM. Importantly, we did not reduce the staff and resources for these programs, so while the duration is shorter we are able to use the same staffing levels to deliver strong content in the programs and elsewhere across our output.

Most of our podcast programs are taken from our broadcast streams and are therefore available to listen to as part of our live programming on digital and on the AM and FM bands. We do have some podcast-only content but this is the minority of our content. Most of our key programming is made available as podcasts. We try and provide information on our website and through our on-air promotions to provide comprehensive information on how to access our content, whether it be scheduled program, podcast or on-demand product.

Inge from New South Wales asked: In respect ABC CLASSIC FM there has been a great overall reduction in quality. From the viewpoint of people with genuine interest in classical music. Australia has an excellent reputation in live concerts, composers, the Conservatorium etc. and till the last years Classical FM radio. We were punching well above our weight. This radio decline is very worrying in the general context of ‘dumbing’ down in the world and the political results of this. Do any of you have the will or the energy to fight for a return and maintenance of Quality?

ABC:

32 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Radio

Classic FM has the best possible relationship with the classical music industry. While it is true there has been presenter changes on the network this year, we believe we have introduced some tremendously talented new voices to Classic FM. Ongoing quality is paramount to Classic FM’s reputation, and all presenters have been chosen for their strong classical music knowledge and involvement in the Australian classical music scene.

Maureen from Tasmania asked: I am an avid listener of ABC/RN specialist content broadcasts. In the future is it likely that podcasts will gradually replace broadcasts? I sincerely hope that this will not happen.

ABC:

RN will continue to be broadcast as a full radio schedule into the future and we are fully committed to protecting this important radio network. Much of RN’s specialist content is available digitally (as podcasts). However, this has no impact on the broadcast schedule, but makes RN’s quality specialist content available to a wider audience.

Audience preferences are evolving, with podcasts becoming increasingly popular. We are therefore making more podcast content to meeting this audience interest and if this trend continues, our content in this space will also grow to ensure we meet the needs of our audience. This will not affect the broadcast radio schedule for RN which will continue to be broadcast for the radio audience.

Penny from Western Australia asked: Q1: I am a retiree who watches ABC TV and listens to Classic Breakfast from when I get up until I settle down to whatever is scheduled for the day at which time I turn the radio off. The main reason I listen to CB is so that I can start the day without having to listen to current affairs (too sad and heavy for me personally) or the loud fake humour and chat

33 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Radio of commercial breakfast programs. I am not a European classic music buff though, and sometimes I do get sick of so much orchestral music. I do text in quite a bit requesting more variety, including more voice and different instruments and am always pleased to hear guitar, oud, flute, and non-western instruments. Australians have such enormously varied heritage backgrounds. I can’t understand why CB is on the whole so unremittingly Eurocentric. I used to love Felix Hayman’s programming for its eclecticism on the question of what might constitute ‘classical’ music. Perhaps we need a quiet, relaxed and peaceful morning program with a different name to cater for all the people who need to ease into the stresses and harassments of day.

ABC:

Classic FM does aim to reflect the diversity of classical music. As much of the classical music canon originates in Europe, European composers inevitably are featured quite prominently. However, the network also plays over 15% Australian composition (and 50% of works played feature Australian artists) as well as works from North and South America and Asia.

Darryn from Queensland asked: With significant changes this year at ABC Classic there has been a lot of feedback from listeners. There has been no attempt by management to this address listener feedback. Regardless of whether the feedback is fair or justified there should be a response. Does the management of ABC Classic intend to ignore this feedback or respond specifically to the concerns people are raising? If the intention is to ignore then this is not a conversation and then clearly this is not meeting the expectations of a significant number of listeners.

34 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Radio

ABC:

The ABC takes audience feedback extremely seriously, with all audience correspondence reviewed. Audience concerns are never treated lightly and are closely monitored, particularly after changes have been implemented. We endeavour to respond to the majority of listeners’ feedback received in writing, particularly when specific concerns are raised.

While audience feedback is factored into decision making, programming changes made to the 2018 Classic FM schedule have only recently been implemented. It is important to give these changes time to be assessed on their merits before we consider any further response. We are working to provide more detail in the listings information on the website in response to audience feedback around this.

Michael from Queensland asked: Brisbane suffers from a commercial market failure of not being able to successfully operate a local news/talk station, the local ABC radio station is the closest we have. Why then isn’t ABC Radio Brisbane better resourced to fill this gap? Since sunrise and first light is well within 4am - 5am during summer, why isn’t there better resourcing for an early morning breakfast show running from 3 - 6am? Why is there not more local programming between 11am - 2pm weekdays and at weeknights? Again, on the weekends, local breakfast begins too late, 6am Saturday is too late and 10am Sunday is ridiculous. We should be having weekend traffic reports too and Brisbane only programs rather than being the base for state-wide programming. There should be local programming non- sport based on weekend afternoons and evenings. Also, if ABC Radio Melbourne can have an easy to remember SMS number why can’t ABC Brisbane have a number such as 04xx 612 612.

ABC:

While we would love to provide additional programming, finite resources mean

35 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Radio we need to allocate funds to where the maximum audience is. This means that unfortunately additional early morning and late evening local programming are not feasible at present.

Local Radio has traditionally provided a balance between local and national programming - The World Today has long been a part of the lunchtime schedule, and Conversations is a popular addition to programming. The new national music program has been added to bring quality Australian music and musicians to Local Radio - a frequent request from listeners.

Unfortunately, there are technical and logistical issues to changing ABC Brisbane’s text number, which mean it is not possible to do so at present.

Irene from Queensland asked: Does the ABC believe - its management respects the public when various radio programs and broadcasters are so whimsically dismissed/changed i.e. radio Melbourne’s breakfast programs, Gerard Whateley - FM changes, etc without proper consultation and timely announcements? Very disdainful of its tax payers.

ABC:

Considerable thought goes into changes to programs and presenters. We incorporate the listener feedback we receive and ratings data into this decision- making process, and make a considered assessment of the right time to change a program’s presenter. Change is however an inevitable part of radio listening - at some point presenter line ups will evolve. We understand these changes will not please every listener, but they are made after much consideration and most importantly, where we assess they will be viewed positively by the majority of the audience.

Decisions to change a program’s presenter are usually communicated to listeners as part of the announcement of the new schedule for the following calendar year.

36 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Radio

Jan from Victoria asked: How does management justify the huge decline in judgement when they replace a super-intelligent breakfast presenter in Red Symons, with two apparent inexperienced presenters? This shows a lack of research into what OUR ABC listeners want. Bring back Red please?

ABC:

Red Symons made an enormous contribution to ABC Melbourne over the years he presented the Breakfast program. However, after 15 years we felt it was time for a change in that slot. ABC listeners are a diverse group and we understand that change will not be appreciated by every listener, but we only make changes that we assess the majority of our listeners will appreciate.

Deb from Victoria asked: My question is WHY all the changes on ABC774? Red gets the flick.... ABC breakfast now sounds like commercial FM radio. TWT gets slashed to half an hour then we don’t want music with Myf. Why didn’t you put David Astle or Dave O’Neill in that slot? We want interesting calm chat, NOT TripleJ. I’ve been a rusted on 774 listener since the middle sixties. And not an old fuddy duddy as I have teenagers still at home. I just hate how you ditched Red Symons quite abruptly and then you made the decision to put two younger hosts in a tag team.... tried to listen but now I’ve given up....which means I forget to listen when Jon Faine is on now. (I’m wondering if the flow on effect will be a drop in Jon’s ratings.) Why oh why did you do this? The ratings were fine. It looks like you’ve decided to force a change in the listening demographic and if you read all the hundreds of complaints on the 774 Facebook wall to the post introducing Sami and Jacinta, it’s obviously a huge listener backlash. PS. Where you did get the change right was Richelle (and Brian).

37 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Radio

ABC:

The changes to ABC Melbourne have all been made with our listeners firmly in mind. Red Symons has made a huge contribution over the 15 years he presented Breakfast but we assessed it was the right time for a change. We understand that not all listeners will be pleased with every programming change we make, but they are all made because we assess they will please the majority of our listeners.

Changing TWT to a 30-minute program is part of the broader changes to Radio current affairs programming that we have made in response to evolving audience preferences in this area. As people are keeping more regularly up to date with current affairs throughout the day, we are seeing a shift away from an interest in longer current affairs programming at this time. We are using the additional resources to make more long form content and for our journalists to produce more in-depth content across the day. Local Radio listeners have often requested more music content - the lunchtime music program aims to meet that interest by covering quality Australian music and musicians.

Patricia from the Australian Capital Territory asked: Why does it seem that the loyal radio listeners have been abandoned for some other demographic, both in the announcer changes and play list changes? Change is a part of life, but it seems that presenters with the trust and ear of the local listeners are being replaced with younger, less talented and less experienced people who don’t seem to have learnt how to speak to people to gain the most from interviews and who don’t seem to understand the interests of their listeners.

ABC:

Changes to presenters are always made after much consideration and with our audience firmly in mind. The ABC in no way has a policy of replacing older presenters with younger ones – our presenters come from a wide range of demographics and will continue to do so. However, when a presenter who has been at the ABC for a long period of time moves on, it is likely their replacement will be

38 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Radio younger – often not far from the age of the outgoing presenter when they started in the role. The new voices at ABC Canberra are tremendously talented presenters who we believe have the ability to build that close relationship with the audience.

Barbara from New South Wales asked: Please return Radio National to its former ‘glory’ as Australia’s cultural treasure, with its rich and diverse programming, including daily/nightly music programs, poetry, readings and performance. Interviews with writers are interesting, but hearing their work is more so.

ABC:

RN is the home of big thinking, big ideas, and the national conversation and is focusing its resources on producing quality programming that contributes to these areas. As such, the CD based music shows and live music performance on RN are increasingly seen as better suited to our specialist music networks which have the resources and expertise to showcase them. We have introduced a new suite of programs this year, The Hub, which cover the stage, books, arts and the screen across the week, but don’t envisage introducing any performance programs into the RN schedule at present.

Helen from the Australian Capital Territory asked: Will Radio National continue to operate with live to air specialist radio programs?

ABC:

Yes. We are 100% committed to ensuring the continued success of RN as specialist network and to safeguard its role as the source of important national conversations.

39 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Radio

Margy from the Australian Capital Territory asked: Q1. I like Myff but why have her on every day please? I’m 70 year old Canberran and if I want that music I can switch to JJJ!! Q 2. WHY sack the BEST Canberra Local Radio Journalist in Ms G Jacobs? The most intelligent, entertaining interviewer on Canberra ABC local radio!!! No consideration for SENIOR listeners, just dumb down Canberra Local radio!!!! NOT HAPPY WITH THE CHANGES!!!

ABC:

Local Radio listeners have long requested more music on the network. We have introduced a daily national music show to respond to that feedback, with Myf Warhurst’s program focusing on bringing Local Radio listeners quality Australian music and musicians.

Lucille from the Australian Capital Territory asked: RN was a station I used to be able to listen to all the time. Not anymore. In your attempt to get a younger audience you have lost a loyal older audience. What was once a great station now has endless repeats and ‘tripeats’ and the overall programming is the antithesis of good radio. Your policy is ageist. You have thrown the baby out of the bathwater. And has your audience increased?

ABC:

We are committed to ensuring the continued success of RN as specialist network and our programming decisions are made to safeguard its role as the source of

40 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Radio important national conversations. RN is not aimed at any particular demographic, but at all listeners interested in the intelligent and in-depth programming that is the hallmark of RN.

We reduced repeats on RN in April of 2017 from four plays to three for some specialist highly produced and expensive programs made in RN. We schedule repeats as a deliberate strategy to ensure that audience members with different patterns to their day still get to listen to the programs. Our audience tends to respond positively to this and indeed, RN has always carried repeats in this way.

Allison from the Australian Capital Territory asked: I am very concerned that Radio National May be run down, dumbed down and removed. I value its news, analysis and high-quality specialist content and my life would be diminished if this was occurring. Can you assure me that this will not happen over the current term of the Managing Director?

ABC:

We are 100% committed to ensuring the continued success of RN as specialist network and to safeguard its role as the source of important national conversations. RN will continue to broadcast the quality specialist programs and intelligent analysis that are the hallmarks of the network.

Helen from New South Wales asked: Why did abc classic FM destroy their unique website which gave detailed program details in advance and retro respective, giving respect to the performers and allowing the listeners to plan their listening like with any TV guide

ABC:

Our new website is in its starting phase and we are working hard to develop it as an

41 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Radio educational and community hub for classical music lovers all over Australia. We are working to update our listings information to include artist names, album artwork and more accurate links to Spotify and YouTube. We are also working on a fix for the faults that are leading to duplication and missing listings information as well as improving upcoming concerts information so we can provide detailed schedules of future events and programming highlights. We are not looking to include detailed advanced programming (i.e. every track, as in the past) to allow for greater programming flexibility. Our presenters and (human) programmers need the ability to change their track listings to respond to events of the day, the news agenda or to audience response to works just played. We know that most visitors to our listings site use the information to find out what they’re listening to now, or what they’ve just heard.

Jeanti from New South Wales asked: How and when will the ABC review the success or not of the removal of a Station Director for ABC Radio National, and what are the broadcaster’s plans for developing Radio National as a specialise content provider over the next 10 years?

ABC:

RN still has a dedicated station manager under the ABC’s new content structure. This new structure in no way lessens our commitment to RN as a network, rather it facilitates greater collaboration between content makers so that they can produce more quality content for our audience.

We are fully committed to maintaining RN’s position as the home of intelligent specialist content and big ideas into the future. We see RN continuing to play its role as a leader in Australia’s national debates and conversations. RN’s quality content will continue to be available to listeners on broadcast radio as the radio network RN, but also (as is the case now) as on-demand content. We will continue to invest in digital programming and infrastructure to reflect the growing percentage of audience members who access RN content in this way, but this will not affect the broadcast network.

42 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Radio

Brian from New South Wales asked: What is the ABC doing about solving poor radio reception (In my case NO radio reception)? May I suggest that you broadcast RN over the free to air TV radio services. I have been complaining about no reception for 22 years and nothing has ever been done except ignore my emails or offer excuses. When is radio reception going to rise high enough on your action agenda for you to take action?

ABC:

Radio transmission is managed by the government agency ACMA and so ABC Radio does not control the quality of the broadcast to specific areas. In general, AM reception is increasingly poor quality as it is susceptible to interference from other forms of technology and buildings. The ABC is investing in new technologies for radio technology, and we are exploring options such broadcasting radio over free to air television.

Ali from New South Wales asked: Why are there so many repetitions of previous programs every week on radio national?

ABC:

We schedule repeats as a deliberate strategy to ensure that audience members with different patterns to their day still get to listen to the programs. Most RN specialist programs are repeated twice in a 24/7 schedule - one of the repeats is in the overnight schedule between midnight and 6am. We did reduce repeats on RN in April of 2017 from four plays to three for some specialist highly produced and expensive programs made in RN.

Kieran from New South Wales asked: If the ABC and Triple J have commercial agreements with companies

43 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Radio like Apple Music, YouTube, Universal Music Australia, and Island Records Australia, and Triple J is benefiting financially from such commercial agreements, then why does Triple J who are acting like a commercial radio station (in Australia) need a government handout?

ABC:

The ABC charter ensures it maintains its independence by keeping all our content platforms commercial free. The corporation does not raise revenue by giving commercial companies access to our audiences across our broadcast and online platforms. The ABC does have a duty however to seek ways in which to raise revenue through commercial products associated with our programming to provide as much financial support as we can. That is the mission of ABC Commercial. All revenues raised through our associated off-air commercial activity is put directly back into program making. Our commercial revenue helps support our broadcasting activities but only in a modest capacity.

Robert from New South Wales asked: Why is Sydney Local Radio (702) now a nationally based program that to me is better suited to RN or Triple J?

ABC:

ABC Sydney (702) is still a Local Radio station, focussed predominantly on local news, stories and conversations. As has always been the case, Local Radio carries a select number of national programs such as Conversations and the Radio current affairs programs. This year we have also added a lunchtime national music program bringing quality Australian music and artists to the Local Radio audience. Local Radio listeners have long requested more music on the network. Due to the reduction in length of two national current affairs programs, the balance between national and local programming on ABC Sydney remains roughly the same (30 minutes less local programming).

44 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Radio

Owen from New South Wales asked: When are going to put more music on radio National. Radio National has been overtaken by journalists and talking heads please let us have some more music to lighten up our day.

ABC:

RN is the home of big thinking, big ideas, and the national conversation and is focusing its resources on producing quality programming that contributes to these areas. As such, the CD based music shows and live music performance on RN are increasingly seen as better suited to our specialist music networks which have the resources and expertise to showcase them. RN’s flagship music (discussion) program, The Music Show, still remains on the network, and RN breakfast and Drive feature Musicians on a regular basis. However, we do not envisage adding more music to the schedule at this point.

Sue from New South Wales asked: I would like to know why, on RN you: • keep repeating your daytime programs in the evening when people can just download these • in your summer schedule you rerun old programs from earlier in the year and then also repeat your daytime programs in the evening, so I found myself hearing the same programs 4 or 5 times over! I would also like to know why you are moving radio national and 702 to sound more and more like stations at the other end of the dial by bringing in more and more lightweight presenters and program formats which are likely to have less appeal for your current audience without necessarily bringing audiences from the other end of the dial to the ABC?

45 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Radio

ABC:

We schedule repeats as a deliberate strategy to ensure that audience members with different patterns to their day still get to listen to the programs. While on- demand listening is increasing, there is still a substantial section of the audience who solely access our content via broadcast radio, and we create our broadcast schedule to meet the needs of this audience.

RN has a smaller audience over summer as much of the country takes a break. Our content makers do so too, and so our programs tend to have a break over summer. While we put a great deal of thought into the RN summer schedule to ensure it features a range of new content, it does include repeats of content broadcast earlier in the year.

We are 100% committed to ensuring the continued success of RN as a specialist network and to safeguard its role as the source of important national conversations. We aim to cover a range of topics on RN, but always aim to do so with the intelligent analysis and in-depth exploration that are the hallmarks of the network.

Angela from our Sydney audience asked: Why has the ABC become so focussed on text messages from listeners on Classic FM, when it adds nothing to the quotient of information about the music about to be / or just been played, and b) it leaves out over half the country because of time differences, as well as all those (like me) who have no mobile phone coverage in their homes?

ABC:

Text messages are a way of allowing our listeners greater involvement in, and interaction with their programs. I understand that it is frustrating for parts of the audience that are not able to participate in this process, but for those audience members who can, we have found they appreciate the opportunity to build this relationship with the program.

46 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Radio

Jacob from our Sydney audience asked4: ABC board members and CEO, ABC Classic FM had major changes about December 2017. • There are no more music listings. Not even when the work is broadcast, just composer and composition – nothing else. • ABC classic FM is now a “musak” service or background music. The listner cannot elect or prepare. (for over 40 years Classic FM could program ahead by more than a month). • This also denies the performers credit for their work or attract listeners to particulars performers or works. • Classic FM surprisingly knows how to link each piece of music to commercial web sites – while not listing it on its own. • Music listing for at least two weeks must be reinstated. • ABC Classic FM carries now direct advertising for certain commercial sites, i.e. YouTube, Spotify or Sony Classic. • This corrupts the choice of music played. • The ABC is not allowed to advertise commercial sites – yet it does now openly and says so! • In the case of YouTube, the CEO, Ms Guthrie was business related and benefits her former employers, or if she has shares in Google (the beneficial owner of YouTube) then the board should investigate if she financially benefits from commercial activities entered into by the ABC. • All links to commercial sites should be removed, ABC Classic is not a shop, marketing agent and/or commission taker.

4 Question originally supplied in ALL UPPERCASE text, but modified to sentence case for accessible legibility

47 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Radio

• ABC Board should confirm that it will continue to broadcast via antennas and high quality, not via poor quality internet downloads at the listner’s cost.

ABC:

Our new website is in its starting phase and we are working hard to develop it as an educational and community hub for classical music lovers all over Australia. We are working to update our listings information to include artist names, album artwork and more accurate links to Spotify and YouTube. We are also working on a fix for the faults that are leading to duplication and missing listings information as well as improving upcoming concerts information so we can provide detailed schedules of future events and programming highlights. We are not looking to include detailed advanced programming (i.e. every track, as in the past) to allow for greater programming flexibility. Our presenters and (human) programmers need the ability to change their track listings to respond to events of the day, the news agenda or to audience response to works just played. We know that most visitors to our listings site use the information to find out what they’re listening to now, or what they’ve just heard.

We provide links to the music we have played as a service to our audience who we know are interested in this and may wish to listen further. This is within the bounds allowed under the ABC’s Editorial Policy on commercial references, and indeed commercial references such as this are carefully considered by our editorial policies team. Providing these links in no way interferes with our editorial independence or has any bearing on the music played.

ABC will continue to make its terrestrial radio networks available on the AM and FM bands. We will also continue to provide all our terrestrial services on the DAB+ service in all the state and territory capital cities as well as via our internet platform. DAB+ offers listeners superior sound quality as well as additional program information and functions such as pause and rewind which a growing number of our listeners are seeking. DAB+ certainly has superior quality sound compared to the quality of audio delivered via AM frequencies. DAB+ also allows us to offer additional digital-only channels such as Double J, ABC Jazz and the recently launched ABC KIDS listen, as well as being available on digital radio and via the

48 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Radio internet.

Melanie from our Sydney audience asked: ‘Radio National is ‘My ABC’ and I have become increasingly worried that the senior leadership at the ABC may not appreciate its value to the community of listeners who are interested in matters of the mind. Although many of RN’s programs are still of high quality, I fear that its uniqueness is being lost on the altar of cost-cutting and prevailing trend for devaluing intellectual content. I am also concerned about the removal of editorial control from radio specialists. I would be keen to hear the views of Board members on the future of Radio National.’

ABC:

We are fully committed to maintaining RN’s position as the home of intelligent specialist content and big ideas into the future. We see RN continuing to play its role as a leader in Australia’s national debates and conversations. RN’s quality content will continue to be available to listeners on broadcast radio as the radio network RN, but also (as is the case now) as on-demand content. We will continue to invest in digital programming and infrastructure to reflect the growing percentage of the audience who accesses RN content in this way, but this will not affect the broadcast network.

RN still has a dedicated station manager under the ABC’s new content structure who reports to the same senior manager as previously - that is, the editorial chain remains as it was. This new structure in no way lessens our commitment to RN as a network, rather it facilitates greater collaboration between content makers so that they can produce more quality content for our audience.

Joan from our Sydney audience asked: Re Classic FM: The type and presentation of music has changed dramatically in the

49 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Radio last 6 months, has your target demographic changed? If so, how was this determined. If your research suggests no demographic change, what is the reasoning behind the change in programming? Has the number of listeners increased or decreased and can these figures be made public?

ABC:

Classic FM has not changed its target demographic. As a specialist music service, we aim to reach all Australians interested in classical music.

There has been no policy change on the type of music played on Classic FM. The network still includes many of its most experienced and knowledgeable presenters all of whom are supported by a highly qualified team of music programmers who advise on music selection and pronunciation. Our presenters have literally hundreds of years of broadcast experience between them. This week Mairi Nicolson celebrated 40 years on air. Margaret Throsby marked 50 years on air last year, and there are other long-standing and popular presenters such as Christopher Lawrence, Stephen Watkins and Damien Beaumont. We have introduced some presenters more recently, such as Russell Torrance, Greta Bradman, Alice Keath and Vanessa Hughes. They are all talented broadcasters and exceptional musicians in their own right, who contribute to the expertise and industry experience that make Classic FM such a unique radio network.

We have made changes to our website and have introduced a stronger digital focus this year. Technology and the way our audience uses it has changed substantially in recent years, and we are reflecting this in a greater use of digital technology to provide educational content. None of this is about targeting any one demographic, but the continual evolution of the network to reflect the Australian music community and listening community more generally.

We generally don’t tend to publish ratings, and as there have been no ratings survey results as yet this year, we would not be able to indicate any effect of changes made in the 2018 programming year as yet.

50 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Radio

Lindsay from our Rockhampton audience asked: When will digital radio be available in the Rockhampton region? Is there currently a plan to commence transmission?

ABC:

The roll out of digital radio is determined by the government authority ACMA and not by the ABC. However, the ABC is committed to the expansion of digital radio and would like to see it extended further. There is no current plan to commence transmission in Rockhampton.

Fran from our Rockhampton audience asked: My several radios are rusted onto ABC-RN. Unfortunately, this means I hear the repeats of many, many programs (up to three times in the same week). Fair enough, I understand that funds are limited and decreasing annually, but can we not hear them again during the Summer recess? 2) Can ABC-RN set up a donation account where listeners can contribute to finance for production of programs? Needs to be voluntary! Needs to be for named programs! For example! I would donate for Life Matters and The Hub, but not for God Forbid!!!

ABC:

51 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Radio earlier in the year.

Deane from our Rockhampton audience asked: When will it be possible to hear Country Hour on digital radio? Since I have changed to digital radio in the house (with ABC’s encouragement), I have not been able to listen to the Country Hour except on my car radio (not yet digital). So many need to hear the Country Hour but are now denied access.

ABC:

Digital radio is only available in the capital cities and as such, only the relevant metro Local Radio station is broadcast on digital radio. For metro listeners, the Country Hour is available via podcast on the ABC Listen app.

Josephine from our Launceston audience asked: It seems that all the true ABC announcers of sometime have been “pensioned off. Is it a new policy to get rid of the highest paid/longest serving employees? Will this happen to Christopher Lawrence in the near future, since he has taken over Colins spot.? Do the audience have no say on policy?

ABC:

There is no policy to replace long serving presenters. Presenter line ups inevitably evolve, and from time to time change will occur as we assess it is the right time to introduce new voices to the network.

Classic FM still includes many of its most experienced and knowledgeable presenters all of whom are supported by a highly qualified team of music programmers who advise on music selection and pronunciation. Our presenters have literally hundreds of years of broadcast experience between them. This week Mairi Nicolson celebrated 40 years on air. Margaret Throsby marked 50

52 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Radio years on air last year, and there are other long-standing and popular presenters such as Christopher Lawrence, Stephen Watkins and Damien Beaumont. We have introduced some presenters more recently, such as Russell Torrance, Greta Bradman, Alice Keath and Vanessa Hughes. They are all talented broadcasters and exceptional musicians in their own right, who contribute to the expertise and industry experience that make Classic FM such a unique radio network.

Christine from our Launceston audience asked: I understand that you don’t plan the music as far in advance as you used to, and that programs are frequently altered in response to events in music and in the wider world. However, it would be much appreciated by those of us who listen to other ABC stations if as much information as possible could be given about future programs. It is extremely frustrating to learn from listings after music has been played that I have missed music which I would regard as “must hear” while listening to RN. I know perfection is unattainable, but some attempt would be better than none.

ABC:

Our new website is in its starting phase and we are working hard to develop it as an educational and community hub for classical music lovers all over Australia. We are working to update our listings information to include artist names, album artwork and more accurate links to Spotify and YouTube. We are also working on a fix for the faults that are leading to duplication and missing listings information, as well as improving upcoming concerts information so we can provide detailed schedules of future events and programming highlights. We are not looking to include detailed advanced programming (i.e. every track, as in the past) to allow for greater programming flexibility. Our presenters and (human) programmers need the ability to change their track listings to respond to events of the day, the news agenda or to audience response to works just played. We know that most visitors to our listings site use the information to find out what they’re listening to now, or what they’ve just heard.

53 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Radio

Diana from our Launceston audience asked: When is ABC Classic FM management going to start acknowledging that its discerning audience want to see daily music listings (an integral part of their listening enjoyment) on its website to enable them to plan their listening, and stop insulting their intelligence by fobbing them off with spin about digital radio, directing them to ‘concert schedule’ which is not a substitute for entire-day listings and giving them the annoying “Ravel in 10 minutes but first - Mozart!”?

ABC:

Our new website is in its starting phase and we are working hard to develop it as an educational and community hub for classical music lovers all over Australia. We are working to update our listings information to include artist names, album artwork and more accurate links to Spotify and YouTube. We are also working on a fix for the faults that are leading to duplication and missing listings information, as well as improving upcoming concerts information so we can provide detailed schedules of future events and programming highlights. We are not looking to include detailed advanced programming (i.e. every track, as in the past) to allow for greater programming flexibility. Our presenters and (human) programmers need the ability to change their track listings to respond to events of the day, the news agenda or to audience response to works just played. We know that most visitors to our listings site use the information to find out what they’re listening to now, or what they’ve just heard.

David from our Launceston audience asked: Noting the ABC’s desire to expand the audience reach of Classic FM, did a significant number of young people tweet the ABC to complain that Colin Fox, Guy Noble, Margaret Throsby, Graham Abbott and Phil Sametz were so well-spoken, knowledgeable, witty and professional that they were turned off listening to classical music? And that if they were replaced by people who greeted them as ‘Hey!’, or ‘How you

54 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Radio going?’, and someone who might suggest that Christmas Carols were too ‘in your face’, they would switch from JJJ to Classic FM?

ABC:

Classic FM’s presenter line up evolves over time. Classic FM still includes many of its most experienced and knowledgeable presenters all of whom are supported by a highly qualified team of music programmers who advise on music selection and pronunciation. Our presenters have literally hundreds of years of broadcast experience between them. This week Mairi Nicolson celebrated 40 years on air. Margaret Throsby marked 50 years on air last year, and there are other long- standing and popular presenters such as Christopher Lawrence, Stephen Watkins and Damien Beaumont.

We have introduced some presenters more recently, such as Russell Torrance, Greta Bradman, Alice Keath and Vanessa Hughes. They are all talented broadcasters and exceptional musicians in their own right, who contribute to the expertise and industry experience that make Classic FM such a unique radio network.

55 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Digital

Alex from Victoria asked: What has the ABC in terms of service growth? Are there plans for more Digital Radio (in rural areas)? And what is the ABC doing to make iView a more competitive format in this streaming age?

ABC:

The launch next month of DAB+ services in Hobart completes the roll-out of digital services in all capital cities. There are no plans at this stage to launch DAB+ services in regional centres.

The ABC is constantly reviewing the iView user experience to determine how the service can improve. The ABC 2.0 initiative will improve the audiences experience on platforms like iview and we look forward to sharing new developments when possible.

Marie from New South Wales asked: When will I be able to access iview in the USA when visiting family. I hate that I miss out on programmes. I often listen to ABC Nightlife on the App and certainly enjoy that while I’m there.

ABC:

The ABC would like to make iview available in overseas territories in the future but at the moment we are not set up from a rights perspective. However, we are currently undertaking work to make this possible in the future for some of our programs

Steve from Victoria asked: I’d like iview to become everyone’s own personal ABC TV channel that knows what I like automatically plays another program once the current one finishes. Just like broadcast TV, except you can guide it if

56 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Digital you want through the app on your phone or tablet. Is there anything like that on the horizon?

ABC:

The ABC is constantly reviewing the iview user experience to determine how the service can improve. The ABC 2.0 initiative will improve the audiences experience on platforms like iview and we look forward to sharing new developments when possible.

Shell from New South Wales asked: Why is there no download and watch later option on iview and kids iview?

ABC:

Christopher from New South Wales asked: Why must we be bombarded by constant “commercials” for ABC programmes and products on both radio and television? The emphasis on the ABC Listen app is apparently intended to move listeners away from radio to online. Is the ABC policy now to reduce broadcast content in favour of online?

ABC:

57 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Digital possible. We currently reach more than 70% of Australians and our strategy is to grow this figure. Telling audiences about new content is one way we can do this.

The ABC Listen app is a new ABC product and our promotion of the service is aimed at informing our audiences of a new and innovative way to access their favourite and new programs. We are deeply committed to our traditional radio audiences but at the same time we have developed the ABC Listen app to improve the listening experience, unlock the schedule and empower listeners to access content when and where they want it.

Tom from Tasmania asked: The ABC is an incredibly important Australian institution, producing and holding cultural works across many mediums, genres, and generations. But historical and archival open access to ABC content is hopeless, effectively nothing. Why doesn’t the ABC provide open online access to ABC produced content by default? Why can’t I go online right now and watch or listen to the 7pm News on the day I was born in my home city?

ABC:

Unfortunately, there are limits to what the ABC can do in terms of the archive material it can offer audiences. However we hope that ABC 2.0 will improve the accessibility of our archives for all Australians.

Peter from Tasmania asked: As a shareholder and supporter of the ABC I welcome the commitment by Michelle Guthrie to grow the ABC through digital and online content and free to air and to see the ABC as content provider across any number of devices. How can the ABC capture more of the 18-50 market? What is the ABC

58 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Digital doing to modernise Iview so it is more seamless for this age group eg see SBS site? And, what is the ABC doing to increase the speed of just in news in the regions/local areas? The number of items is very thin. Why can’t the ABC capture its own content from radio to increase the feed to its online news services?

ABC:

As ABC Chairman Justin Milne told audiences at the APM, it is time for us to fully evolve the ABC into an organisation which is fit for the digital challenges of the next 20 years. The Investing in Audiences strategy is a series of projects, which together will make the ABC better for audiences and better for our staff. When these initiatives come together they will create an ABC that will use technology to transform the way we serve content to our audiences. And it will change how our people operate, attracting the brightest creative and technical talent and making the ABC an even better place to work.

Gillian from Queensland asked: I live in rural Qld. Often can’t get good reception of Radio National at 792AM. Though I’m rural, in general, I prefer to listen to Radio National. Digital access via my ADSL connection is an hour out, i.e., not Qld time. Also doing the podcast thing which sounds so easy when Patricia Karvelus talks about it, is actually quite difficult especially sorting through the programs once you have them. Further there are hundreds of good podcasts. Are they indexed? How are they indexed. I think the ABC needs to pay attention to accessibility for people like me.

ABC:

Regarding the strength of ABC RN on 729 AM in your area, the strength of the signal will differ depending on where you are located and the distance you live from the transmitter. There may be alternative transmitters that you can tune in to. Check out

59 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Digital the range of transmitters and frequencies5. Alternative listening options include the ABC Listen App which you can access content via a portable device such as your smart phone or tablet. If you access the ABC Listen App you will find all our podcasts listed alphabetically and by network.

Geoff from Western Australia asked: Will the ABC consider creating its own platforms, instead of using Facebook and Twitter?

ABC:

No, we are not currently developing our own social media platforms.

Jenny from New South Wales asked: Why cannot the ABC allow iviewers to ‘resume’ where they left off in a program if they do not watch the entire program in one program (other channels provide this convenience)?

ABC:

The ABC is constantly reviewing the iView user experience to determine how the service can improve. The ABC 2.0 initiative will improve the audiences experience on platforms like iView and we look forward to sharing new developments when possible.

Glyn from our Sydney audience asked: Given the limited reach of the current ABC Digital radio stations, could ABC national TV digital channels 200 and 201 (currently used for Double J and ABC Jazz radio) be more efficiently employed by carrying special

5 http://radio.abc.net.au/help/offline

60 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Digital interest ABC radio programming such as Parliamentary broadcasts, Test cricket commentary and other special events? These programs would then not only have greater reach, especially into regional areas, there would no need to interrupt regular programming on AM/FM local ABC stations and ABC News Radio. Listeners to the special interest programs in vehicles without digital radios could still use the ABC Listener app on their smartphones.

ABC:

Double J and ABC Jazz are ABC’s most popular digital channels and among the most popular of all digital channels available in Australia. Double J was ranked the top digital station in Australia last year, with ABC Jazz coming in at number three. The decision to make available these channels on the TV digital spectrum is based primarily on the number of listeners to each of those stations. We believe that to replace two of the most popular digital channels delivered via the digital television network with specialist channels would not be in the best interests of our audiences.

61 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED News/ Journalism

Tristan from Victoria asked: Is there opportunity for the expansion of the ABC’s investigative journalism arm? While this may be the most expensive form of news coverage it is arguable that it delivers the most public good for the people of Australia

ABC:

The ABC’s commitment to in-depth and investigative journalism has never been stronger. In addition to the work of TV and radio programs such as Four Corners, 7.30, AM, PM and Background Briefing, as well as online, ABC NEWS is also currently forming ABC Investigations, Australia’s largest dedicated daily investigative team, which will include 10 top investigative reporters working across programs and platforms, uncovering exclusive stories and breaking new ground on big issues. It has also launched the Specialist Reporting Team, a team of reporters and producers which will bring in-depth, expert reporting to core rounds including: Technology & Science; Regional Communities; Consumer Affairs; Education; Health; Arts, Culture & Entertainment; Social Affairs; and Indigenous. Late last year ABC NEWS also launched three new programs: Matter of Fact. National Wrap and a 10.30pm news bulletin.

Michael from Victoria asked: News 24 is so Sydney centric that is becoming irrelevant to the nation as a whole. This week we saw most new programs debating the public transport delays in Sydney and the nursing shortage in Sydney hospitals. This is a national and international news program. I suspect this is budget driven as film and interviews are cheaply arranged when so local to the base of resources.

62 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED News/Journalism

ABC:

Thanks for the feedback, but rest assured that we make every effort to produce content that is relevant and interesting to all Australians. Some of our content (like News Breakfast) originates from Melbourne, some from Sydney and some from Perth, but the ABC NEWS channel aims to cover a mix of local, national and international news, with the mix depending on the big breaking news of the day.

Cath from New South Wales asked: Why is the ABC lowering its journalistic integrity to its news and investigative programs like 7:30? These programs now feel like commercial shows like Today Tonight where the viewer is pandered to instead of stretching our thinking. How will you ensure the high quality of our news is maintained?

ABC:

Nightly current affairs flagship 7.30 is being strengthened this year to reinforce its position as the nightly destination for Australia’s best analysis and storytelling. In one recent announcement, leading journalist Laura Tingle was recently appointed as the program’s Chief Political Correspondent.

William from Victoria asked: why is it that abc news 24 does not cover the full 24 hour news cycle, and constantly regurgitates the same news and program’s that have been shown previously?

ABC:

The ABC NEWS channel covers a mix of local, national and international news, with the mix depending on the big breaking news of the day. Given audiences tend to dip in and out of 24-hour news channels, some repetition of major stories inevitably occurs. The line-up includes first-run programs every day, including The Drum,

63 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED News/Journalism

Matter of Fact, Planet America and National Wrap.

Malcolm from Victoria asked: Why are there no lead conservative journalists hired by the ABC?

ABC:

All our journalists are required to report impartially, they are not employed to represent particular political points of view.

Aaron from New South Wales asked: With the rise of ‘fake news’ and ‘alternative facts’, does the ABC have any plans to provide any kind of services that notify the Australian public of incorrect, and/or propagandized information sources (websites, videos, social media articles etc.)?

ABC:

On a daily basis, ABC NEWS addresses the issue of “fake news” and “alternative facts” by ensuring our own reporting is fact-based and trustworthy. The RMIT ABC Fact Check unit also determines the accuracy of claims by politicians, public figures, advocacy groups and institutions engaged in the public debate.

Marty from New South Wales asked: Judith Whelan: you’ve moved PM to a 6:30 PM time slot ... are you hoping that, having listened to the (inadequate) 6:00 PM News, we will NOT bother to return for PM 25 minutes later so that you can eventually get rid of it all ... why would you think that people like myself, wanting proper detailed analysis by journalists of international & national affairs want to listen to some presenter waffling on for 25 minutes, giving opinions about fairly trite matters ... why are you so determined to adopt

64 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED News/Journalism

American models of TV broadcast where in-depth analyses of events simply do not exist ... if you are adamant in truncating PM to one half- hour, at least do us the courtesy of placing PM directly after the news!

ABC:

The changes in format for PM and TWT were in response to changes in audience demand and the need to free up resources, giving journalists more time to chase and develop stories and do the in-depth and investigative journalism audiences most value, for broadcast and for digital. There is no change to the amount of content we do. The changes bring PM and TWT into line with morning flagship AM, and PM’s later start time also allows the ABC to provide regional audiences with a new regional current affairs program between 6pm-6.30pm.

David from New South Wales asked: A few weeks ago, ie within the last 4 at least, I was watching the One on One program in which Jane Hutcheon interviews Hi profile personalities. In this instance a lawyer a QC I think, first name Julian, the off-shore detention centres were mentioned when the broadcast was diverted to an international cricket game between Australia and England. I am not aware if that interview was rebroadcast at a later date if at all, and if not why not.

ABC:

An archive of past editions is on the One Plus One website, including the September 2017 interview with Julian Burnside QC6.

Bob from New South Wales asked: I am worried that the ABC is dumbing down its 7pm news service - If we

6 http://www.abc.net.au/news/programs/one-plus-one/2017-09-23/one-plus-one:-julian-burnside/8977796

65 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED News/Journalism want to see stories about car crashes or bad behaviour we can watch the commercial TV service - how about keeping to the important stories from Australia and overseas?

ABC:

Thanks for the feedback, which the news team will look at. The state and territory 7pm News bulletins aim to provide a mix of local, national and international news, with the mix depending on the news of the day and designed to inform and interest a broad range of viewers.

Heather from South Australia asked: Distribution of wealth is one of today’s most widely discussed and controversial issues. Amongst some of us, that is. However, what do we really know about the evolution of this topic? Is it the balancing forces of growth, competition, and technological progress that’s the cause of this inequality, or the dynamics of private capital accumulation that leads to the concentration of wealth in ever fewer hands! We won’t know this until we come up with a theoretical framework that afford a deeper understanding of the underlying mechanisms of wealth. Therefore, are ABC journalists up to the task of bringing the so-called authorities to the network who have thought about ways democracy can regain control over capitalism, ensuring that the general interest take residence over private interest. People who have thought deeply about how we can bring about economic openness and reform. People who look beyond protectionism, and nationalism, as an answer to our social problems. It’s not enough to talk about topics that are more relevant to America’s society.

ABC:

The ABC has a range of programs that thoughtfully examine the deeper issues,

66 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED News/Journalism including the recently launched Matter of Fact with Stan Grant, which airs Monday- Thursday on the ABC NEWS channel at 9pm. Also look out for our new RN program Citizen Jury7 which starts Sunday 8 April.

Niven from the Australia Capital Territory asked: In light of a steady reduction in investigative journalism at the ABC since 2014, and in the context of staff reductions at major newspapers, does the ABC have a plan to maintain or increase the amount of investigative journalism as this is clearly in the public interest?

ABC:

Anna from New South Wales asked: I understand that the ABC must feel political pressure to achieve ‘balance’ by letting both ‘sides’ have their say (there’s usually more than two sides anyway), but is there a policy/standard about investigating claims made by the different ‘sides’ in news and current affairs? I’m asking this because it makes me very angry and disappointed when

7 http://www.abc.net.au/radionational/programs/citizen-jury/

67 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED News/Journalism something a politician or someone with a vested interest says is reported (or played) on the news without fact checking - it spreads the lies and doesn’t help the audience determine what is really going on (even if 7.30 or 4 Corners does a more in-depth report later that evening, the lie has been spread to people who only see the news). I wish that the aim was to provide reliable information instead.

ABC:

The ABC aims to present the most accurate and factual news coverage which canvasses all relevant community perspectives, giving the audience the most complete and informed coverage, we can on each issue or topic. We do our best to fact check and challenge all of those we interview, but of course that is not always possible. That is why we also aim for a diversity of views on contentious issues so people can be challenged and contradicted if they present inaccurate or misleading information.

Brian from South Australia asked: Can the ABC undertake MORE investigate reporting on politics, media, NBN, companies so that we get the facts and NOT the spin!

ABC:

68 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED News/Journalism

Ray from New South Wales asked: how can we be sure that the ABC isn’t looking for a headline when often the interviews are one sided and no response from “the other side” at the same time - the interviewer often targets the questions to get the “headline” - e.g. leigh Sales who is obviously pro-labor and anti-Trump based on her targeted questions

ABC:

The ABC has a statutory duty to ensure that the gathering and presentation of news and information is impartial according to the recognised standards of objective journalism. The ABC aims to present, over time, content that addresses a broad range of subjects from a diversity of perspectives reflecting a diversity of experiences, presented in a diversity of ways from a diversity of sources, including content created by ABC staff, generated by audiences and commissioned or acquired from external content-makers. Impartiality does not require that every perspective receives equal time, nor that every facet of every argument is presented. It should also be remembered that it is a common tactic in interviews to ask provocative or challenging questions, but these questions should not be taken as representing the personal views of the interviewer.

Ben from Queensland asked: ABC is notorious for some of the biggest investigations that have reshaped our country, Fitzgerald Inquiry, live cattle export, etc. What is ABC doing to expand on longer-term, detailed and resource intensive investigative journalism such as the Four Corners program?

ABC:

69 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED News/Journalism which will include 10 top investigative reporters working across programs and platforms, uncovering exclusive stories and breaking new ground on big issues. It has also launched the Specialist Reporting Team, a team of reporters and producers which will bring in-depth, expert reporting to core rounds including: Technology & Science; Regional Communities; Consumer Affairs; Education; Health; Arts, Culture & Entertainment; Social Affairs; and Indigenous. Late last year ABC NEWS also launched three new programs: Matter of Fact. National Wrap and a 10.30pm news bulletin.

Kate from the Northern Territory asked: What is the ABC doing to ensure that its news coverage, both nationally and internationally, is kept strong and we do not keep losing in-depth programs such as Lateline?

ABC:

Stuart from New South Wales asked: thank you for the opportunity to ask a question. My question is, with the demise investigative journalism and the increase in the use of spin doctors and political staffer’s stay on message (at whatever the question even if it means not answering the questions) and the demise

70 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED News/Journalism of Lateline, what is the ABC’S strategy to overcome the obfuscation of this intensely negatively political tactic?

ABC:

On a daily basis, ABC NEWS addresses these issues by ensuring our own reporting is fact-based and trustworthy. The RMIT ABC Fact Check unit also determines the accuracy of claims by politicians, public figures, advocacy groups and institutions engaged in the public debate. ABC NEWS is also currently forming ABC Investigations, Australia’s largest dedicated daily investigative team, which will include 10 top investigative reporters working across programs and platforms; and the Specialist Reporting Team.

Karen from New South Wales asked: Will the ABC continue to do what they do so well? Four Corner’s and so many amazing programs that shine light Significant issues… Mad as Hell Q&A Australian Story 7-30 Report all are classic ABC at its best!!

ABC:

Yes. We’ll continue to produce and deliver programs across all platforms that are high quality, distinctive and Australian. In a hyper-competitive media landscape, where audiences have never had so much choice, it’s critical that the ABC plays to its strengths of quality, distinctive and Australian content.

John from the Australian Capital Territory asked: My question relates to the dumbing down of the ABC’s news content

71 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED News/Journalism and investigations. Its Canberra TV news often ignores significant national issues in favour of either minor local items of narrow interest, or populist items often getting far too much priority and air time (eg recent pop star deaths heading the bulletin and going on forever!). The ABC/Fairfax investigations are close to ‘trial by media’ and more appropriate for the gutter press. Does the ABC intend to remedy its descent into sensationalism and populism at the expense of respected journalism?

ABC:

Thanks for the feedback, which the Canberra news team will look at. The state and territory 7pm News bulletins aim to provide a mix of local, national and international news, with the mix depending on the news of the day. The ABC’s commitment to quality, independent journalism is stronger than ever. Current initiatives include forming two new teams: ABC Investigations, Australia’s largest dedicated daily investigative team, which will include 10 top investigative reporters working across programs and platforms; and the Specialist Reporting Team, a team of reporters and producers which will bring in-depth, expert reporting to core rounds including: Technology & Science; Regional Communities; Consumer Affairs; Education; Health; Arts, Culture & Entertainment; Social Affairs; and Indigenous. The ABC journalistic component of stories we partner with organisations such as Fairfax are subject to the same high editorial standards as the rest of our journalism.

Heather from Queensland asked: The Liberal Government seems determined to gut and hobble the ABC, especially high-quality stations such as RN (ironic since most of the more intelligent of them listen to RN). What are you doing to resist this and keep quality independent journalism from being “trumpified” to the lowest common denominator?

72 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED News/Journalism

ABC: The ABC’s commitment to quality, independent journalism is stronger than ever. Current initiatives include forming two new teams: ABC Investigations, Australia’s largest dedicated daily investigative team, which will include 10 top investigative reporters working across programs and platforms; and the Specialist Reporting Team, a team of reporters and producers which will bring in-depth, expert reporting to core rounds including: Technology & Science; Regional Communities; Consumer Affairs; Education; Health; Arts, Culture & Entertainment; Social Affairs; and Indigenous.

Colin from Western Australia asked: Why is it that the ABC appears to have such a dearth of quality news content that it has to waste valuable air-time by padding-out its primary news bulletins (at least in WA) with: a) headlines of the “top stories” at the start of each News program b) separate in-program promotions for ABC 7.30 Report, and in-story referrals to a not-yet-aired (at least in this region) edition of Four Corners c) extended Q&A dialogue (a.k.a. “waffle”, including clunky, banal, scripted questions from the news reader rather than them being off- the-cuff) between news reader and reporter (the latter of whom is often not even “live on site” at the source of the story!)? “News” is NOT an educational experience in which the presenter has a responsibility or objective to ensure its audience take away some learning from the latter’s participation, as is expected of a provider of training courses. Rather, News is an ephemeral take it or leave it kind of thing, so the “tell ‘em what you’re gonna tell ‘em, tell ‘em, and then tell

73 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED News/Journalism

‘em what you told ‘em” process does NOT apply! The audience desires the pr

ABC:

Thanks for the feedback, which the WA news team will look at. The state and territory 7pm News bulletins aim to provide a mix of local, national and international news, with the mix depending on the news of the day.

a) Headlines are used to provide a summary of the news for people who don’t have time to watch it all.

b) We often receive feedback that we’re not doing enough to tell everyone about other programs. That’s why we run promos.

c) Every journalist is trained in Editorial Policies, then re-trained, re-assessed and peer reviewed to ensure that we deliver journalism that is accurate, independent and impartial.

Audience feedback8 is critical to improving our content. If you send more details about your concerns, such as the time, date and show, we’ll look into it.

Jacqueline from Queensland asked: Why did ABC not cover Bill Shortens announcement of an anti- corruption watchdog, a matter of great public interest when 80% of Australians want one?

ABC:

This announcement was covered extensively by the ABC. Here is some of our digital coverage of this and related issues9.

8 http://about.abc.net.au/talk-to-the-abc/feedback-and-enquiries/ 9 http://www.abc.net.au/news/2018-01-30/bill-shorten-pushes-for-federal-anti-corruption-watchdog/9374420

74 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED News/Journalism

Michael from Queensland asked: The ABC is critiqued often as being left of centre in its analysis and news editorial policy. What measures are in place for balancing the opposing sides of the political divide and thus saving the need for the increasing ‘undetermined’ to receive news rather than commentary?

ABC:

The ABC Charter and our Editorial Policies ensure the ABC delivers to audiences the fair and balanced reporting expected of it, without fear or favour. The Charter and Editorial Policies, together with the professionalism and dedication of our journalists, are the reason most Australians view the ABC as their most trusted source of news.

Deb from Queensland asked: Will the 4 Corners program be continuing?

ABC:

Yes, without question.

Dean from Victoria asked: Why are you so unbalanced with your news, you take a side on hot political issues all the time, we should not know the political agenda of the ABC.

ABC:

75 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED News/Journalism

Andrew from New South Wales asked: Why does the ABC news regularly include irrelevant bad news stories, such as a ferry sinking in the Philippines? Conversely, why doesn’t the ABC report more good news? Is there a policy here?

ABC:

International news from the ABC’s network of foreign correspondents is a key and highly valued part of the service we offer Australians. Our story choices are based on keeping Australians informed of key events and topics from at home and abroad. But we don’t want it all to be gloom and doom – in fact we have a section on our ABC NEWS site dedicated to compiling all the good news10.

Andrew from New South Wales asked: Why doesn’t the ABC produce big picture stories about the fact that through a number of major environmental trends, including ocean acidification, global warming, population increase, and freshwater depletion, we face the unravelling of our global civilization … and more importantly, why doesn’t the ABC carry stories about the deep systemic changes necessary to reverse these trends?

ABC:

The ABC regularly reports on important environmental issues across our platforms, in news coverage as well as in specialist and one-off radio and TV programming. For example, did you catch the recent Foreign Correspondent report on how the Arctic island of Greenland is tackling climate change11 and the agenda-setting Four Cor- ners investigation into the use of water from the Murray-Darling12.

10 http://www.abc.net.au/news/good-news/ 11 http://www.abc.net.au/news/2018-01-29/greenland-land-of-ice-embracing-climate-change/9365316 12 http://www.abc.net.au/4corners/pumped/8727826

76 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED News/Journalism

Anna from New South Wales asked: How can the ABC prevent the spread of untruths in the name of ‘balance’ (I mean when you just report what ‘both sides’ say without any fact checking or comment on the quality of what they say) and instead provide reliable information in news reports? I get really cross when the ABC reports on lies or deceptive things said by a politician, lobby group or other vested interest without any comment on whether they should be believed. I know there is political pressure to provide ‘balance’ but I’d rather you investigated what was really going on - if you leave it up to us to decide I don’t think that’s good journalism. I know you spend more time on analysis in programs like 4 Corners and 7.30 than on the news, but what about the people who don’t see those later programs? They just end up seeing the ABC legitimise people with discredited views.

ABC:

Trish from New South Wales asked: Please reconsider comment and in-depth discussion on news such as Lateline.

ABC:

77 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED News/Journalism

Team, a team of reporters and producers which will bring in-depth, expert reporting to core rounds including: Technology & Science; Regional Communities; Consumer Affairs; Education; Health; Arts, Culture & Entertainment; Social Affairs; and Indigenous.

Barbara from New South Wales asked: I am concerned that the ABC is no longer providing even handed unbiased reporting when it comes to the Federal politics in particular. Some ABC reporters appear to have been captured by the LNP to the point of championing them while ignoring what Labor and other parties might be doing or saying about their policies.

ABC:

The ABC’s commitment to quality, independent journalism is stronger than ever. Current initiatives include forming two new teams: ABC Investigations, Australia’s largest dedicated daily investigative team, which will include 10 top investigative reporters working across programs and platforms; and the Specialist Reporting Team, a team of reporters and producers which will bring in-depth, expert reporting to core rounds including: Technology & Science; Regional Communities; Consumer Affairs; Education; Health; Arts, Culture & Entertainment; Social Affairs; and Indigenous.

Maha from our Sydney audience asked: The ABC is to be commended on its innovation amidst budget cuts & criticism but where is news positioned in this mix and how will it compete in the future with global news organisations?

ABC:

The ABC’s commitment to daily news coverage and in-depth and investigative journalism has never been stronger. In addition to its existing agenda-setting line-

78 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED News/Journalism up across television and radio, a long-term record of innovation in digital means the ABC is strongly positioned in a market crowded with both local and international outlets. Currently for example it is the No 1 local news source on every major social media channel and No 2 in Australian digital audiences overall (according to the Nielsen monthly digital rankings). In addition to the work of TV and radio programs such as Four Corners, 7.30, AM, PM and Background Briefing, as well as online, ABC NEWS is also currently forming ABC Investigations, Australia’s largest dedicated daily investigative team, which will include 10 top investigative reporters working across programs and platforms, uncovering exclusive stories and breaking new ground on big issues. It has also launched the Specialist Reporting Team, a team of reporters and producers which will bring in-depth, expert reporting to core rounds including: Technology & Science; Regional Communities; Consumer Affairs; Education; Health; Arts, Culture & Entertainment; Social Affairs; and Indigenous.

79 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Political/ Social Topics

Lesley from Western Australia asked: Why is it that at the end of every news bulletin on TV and radio there is a 10 or 15 minute coverage of sport but nothing ever about the arts in Australia? In order to encourage participation in music, art, drama and other artistic pursuits, which would surely improve educational outcomes for children, they should be exposed to news and information about arts in their locality and nationwide.

ABC:

The ABC is committed to coverage of arts and cultural issues as much as sport. Visit www.abc.net.au/news/arts-culture for more.

Bill from Western Australia asked: There is a strong perception that the ABC is anti-Liberal-National Party and consistently acts more like the opposition than a neutral broadcaster. This is a great pity for I have been a long-term fan of ABC until recently when I look for news and current affairs elsewhere. The ABC may not agree – but many people are of the same opinion as me – what will you do about this?

ABC:

The ABC Charter and our Editorial Policies ensure the ABC delivers to audiences the fair and balanced reporting expected of it, without fear or favour. The Charter and Editorial Policies, together with the professionalism and dedication of our journalists, are the reason why most Australians view the ABC as their most trusted source of news.

Ross from Queensland asked: The ABC is by far the most watched TV station in our home. We thought

80 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Political/Social Topics the new year Count Down concert was excellent. The TV series the ABC run, like Poldark and The Midwives are first class and we look forward to them when they are running. However, i find that anything that programme that involves the ABC in political comment, News, The Drum, and particularly Tony Jones on Q&A, the ABC takes a very left wing biased view in its presentation. I know this opinion is not just mine. Many people have mentioned to me during discussion that they won’t watch the ABC because of this bias. Question: Does the management of the ABC accept this point, remembering that public opinion is trumps, and if so what steps are being taken the ensure that the ABC is political neutral.

ABC:

The ABC Charter and our Editorial Policies ensure the ABC delivers to audiences the fair and balanced reporting expected of it, without fear or favour. The Charter and Editorial Policies, together with the professionalism and dedication of our journalists, are the reason why most Australians view the ABC as their most trusted source of news.

Jacqueline from Queensland asked: The ABC News seems to have a pro-Coalition govt stance, more pronounced than ever. Labor & Bill Shorten get “short shrift”. They also appear to “parrot” other news outlets, without applying any critical analysis to that item. What is causing this change in emphasis? PS 4 Corners doing fantastic public service with its investigations.

ABC:

The ABC Charter and our Editorial Policies13 ensure the ABC delivers to audiences the fair and balanced reporting expected of it, without fear or favour. The Charter

13 https://edpols.abc.net.au/

81 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Political/Social Topics and Editorial Policies, together with the professionalism and dedication of our journalists, are the reason why most Australians view the ABC as their most trusted source of news.

You may also like to look at some of the issues discussed by our Editorial Director Alan Sunderland14 at his blog.

Stephen from Queensland asked: Comparing the impact on Australians of domestic violence and terrorism, why does domestic violence receive proportionally significantly less coverage? How can society change if media ignores major issues?

ABC:

Domestic violence and terrorism are both serious and important issues which the ABC aims to cover comprehensively.

Lachlan from New South Wales asked: What exactly is the process that the ABC follows with on remaining ‘neutral’ or unbiased when it comes to political reporting?

ABC:

14 http://about.abc.net.au/blog/from-the-editorial-director/

82 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Political/Social Topics every perspective receives equal time, nor that every facet of every argument is presented. We also have extensive editorial policies15 that all journalists are required to follow. More information on these can be found here:

You may also like to look at some of the issues discussed by our Editorial Director Alan Sunderland16 at his blog.

Trent from Victoria asked: Does the ABC have an affirmative action plan to ensure there is enough centre right and right voices in news and current affairs as there are centre left and left voices?

ABC:

Simon from New South Wales asked: Is it possible to include Town Hall style debates (Like CNN US have) between the political Left & Right creating a fair platform for civil debate?

15 https://edpols.abc.net.au/ 16 http://about.abc.net.au/blog/from-the-editorial-director/

83 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Political/Social Topics

ABC:

The ABC invites all sides of politics to take part in televised debates during every state and federal election campaign.

Jessica from New South Wales asked: Critical thinking is fading further and further from the school’s curriculum. Its loss is felt all around western democratic nations whose populous tends to act and react rather than respond to government and world events. As a guardian of democracy, what can the ABC do in News, children’s programming and the like to educate and identify rubrics and frameworks to stem the tide of this important mechanism for democracy.

ABC:

We are motivated by a desire to produce content that is accurate, independent and impartial. Students, teachers and parents can now rely on the ABC as an education resource with ABC Education. This is a one-stop destination that provides access to thousands of curricula- related interactive tools and articles alongside links to the Behind the News archive. The Democracy section offers ABC educational resources17 for teaching history to primary and secondary students.

Philip from Victoria asked: Why does the ABC continue the corruption by the corporate institutions, and the constant political advertising, on a public broadcaster? More pseudo consultation, what happened to “Your Say”,,, NOTHING !!! The abc Accountable to Nobody.

17 http://education.abc.net.au/home#!/home

84 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Political/Social Topics

ABC:

We’ll take that as a comment. We do have a commitment to independent public interest journalism, we run no political advertising and we like to think we are more accountable than any other media organisation in Australia through our independent internal complaints process, oversight by the industry regulator – ACMA – and a range of other public processes, including our recent public meeting which led to these questions being asked and answered.

Alisdair from Victoria asked: How do you and will you manage to keep ABC content free of influence and bias by the (federal and state) government and political interests of the day?

ABC:

The ABC Charter and our Editorial Policies18 ensure the ABC delivers to audiences the fair and balanced reporting expected of it, without fear or favour. The Charter and Editorial Policies, together with the professionalism and dedication of our journalists, are the reason why most Australians view the ABC as their most trusted source of news.

You can also read the Editorial Director’s blog19.

Rubien from New South Wales asked: How does the ABC stand to combat the increased pressure from Mainstream media outlets and certain political agendas to curb the independence and impartiality of the ABC’ broadcasts?

18 https://edpols.abc.net.au/ 19 http://about.abc.net.au/blog/from-the-editorial-director/

85 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Political/Social Topics

ABC:

Derek from New South Wales asked: What safeguards are there to ensure that the warped context set by 75% of Australian media being owned & influenced by billionaire vested interests, often at the expense of the majority of the public, nature & other important considerations such as truth & fairness - of course the ABC appears left wing by comparison - when all thinking people know that it is not - it is merely being viewed from many in that warped context - what safeguards can we have to help protect public access to truth, fairness, ethical and equitable considerations in reporting into the future?

ABC:

The ABC Charter and our Editorial Policies20 ensure the ABC delivers to audiences the fair and balanced reporting expected of it, without fear or favour. The Charter and Editorial Policies, together with the professionalism and dedication of our journalists, are the reason why most Australians view the ABC as their most trusted source of news.

20 https://edpols.abc.net.au/

86 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Political/Social Topics

You can also read the Editorial Director’s blog21.

Jonathan from New South Wales asked: please explain and demonstrate how abc can be free and independent from both governments and private groups in your constitution and deliberation by the policies and strategies you have used so far in your past track record in the last 10 years?

ABC:

The ABC Charter and our Editorial Policies ensure the ABC delivers to audiences the fair and balanced reporting expected of it, without fear or favour. The Charter and Editorial Policies, together with the professionalism and dedication of our journalists, are the reason why most Australians view the ABC as their most trusted source of news.

Kathleen from Queensland asked: Does the ABC realise how they rewrite history and how it is offensive to people who have lived through that period? In particular, I refer to the reportage of women’s “facts”: many women who hear “how outrageously small women’s superannuation payouts are” always considered raising children and helping their husbands as their main job; they worked before and then long after they had children but often retired in their 50s. How can a rational person expect such a woman to have accumulated as much superannuation as her male counterparts? These women (of whom I am one) feel insulted and their existence denied every time they hear a young reporter go on about the injustice of women’s superannuation. Are we not important enough to be respected? This is just one example that arises from the blind political

21 http://about.abc.net.au/blog/from-the-editorial-director/

87 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Political/Social Topics correctness platform that the ABC follows so stringently. [Another is the significant “serious music” content that is programmed on ABC Classic FM: not many honest people enjoy this music - the acceptance of the latter fact caused a return to beautiful classical music at symphony orchestra.

ABC:

Our coverage of the superannuation problems facing many women is in no way intended to ignore or deny the reasons why they face that problem, which in many cases is due to the length of time they spend away from full time paid work.

Thanks for your comments on the music programmed on Classic FM – our decisions on programming are always informed by our desire to meet the needs and interests of our audiences and not by any kind of political interests.

Emma from the Australian Capital Territory asked: As the Director of the Federation of Ethnic Communities’ Councils of Australia, I would like to ask the ABC about the work it is doing to improve its on-screen and off-screen diversity, at all levels of its organisation, so that it truly reflects Australia’s multicultural society?

ABC:

The ABC Equity and Diversity Plan (PDF)22 for 2016-2018 guides the Corporation’s activities and operations and ensures we pursue the objectives of: . encouraging a culture of diversity, engagement and flexibility; . embracing diversity in the workplace; and representing, engaging and connecting with various communities.

This means being focused on leadership, communication, an inclusive culture and

22 http://about.abc.net.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/EquityDiversityPLN2016-18_V1_0.pdf

88 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Political/Social Topics flexibility around work/life balance. It means opening yourself to the broadest possible infusion of talent and ideas. It means doing the best to retain the talent you already have in the workplace, like making sure culturally and linguistically diverse staff are not impeded by barriers. And at the same time, we will connect and engage communities through our great asset – our ability to tell great stories, to prompt conversations and to promote culture.

Sally from the Australian Capital Territory asked: I am concerned about the level of ABC commitment to their role as emergency broadcaster. You not have a sufficient number of experienced announcers with local knowledge to cope with a sudden emergency. Even simple things like your reporters and news readers mispronouncing local names is concerning in sudden life and death situations. But more worrying is a newsreader alerting people to be wary of driving a certain route to a capital city because of fire. The said fire was at its closest over 50 k’s away. Smoke from it may have bothered traffic on the route to a coastal destination. To city people mispronunciation may seem trivial. NO. They are critical in emergencies. You tout yourselves as our ABC. Getting our names correct would prove that. Australians trust the ABC and it’s our first point of contact when things go bad. Not sure you are going to be able to deliver. Sally (welded-on ABC listener).

ABC:

Thank you for this feedback. The ABC takes its role as an emergency broadcaster very seriously and is committed to ensuring it provides critical and accurate information to audiences where and when they require it.

We welcome any feedback on pronunciation and suggest you take a look at ABC

89 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Political/Social Topics

Pronounce23.

Frouke (location not disclosed) asked: How is ABC management ensuring that the ABC remains the trusted, independent & pre-eminent source of quality news analysis while cutting costs & restructuring the organisation to the degree it had?

ABC:

Christopher from New South Wales asked: Will the teams be maintaining their balanced questioning of public interest events including political, lifestyle, economic, international, et al regardless of pressures from state & federal politicians?

ABC:

Yes. The ABC takes its independence and the trust placed in it by Australian audiences very seriously.

23 http://www2b.abc.net.au/abcpronunciation/

90 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Political/Social Topics

Michael from New South Wales asked: Now that the ABC has reduced the programming of news and current affairs it more important than ever to provide concise, informative, accurate reporting. The ABC does this extremely well. The biggest obstacle is often when politicians are interviewed. Can Aunty please concentrate more on interviewing independent specialists in the fields of economics and Political Economy, to comment on Australian policies so as to bypass the inevitable, time consuming, unedifying point- scoring indulged in by politicians.

ABC:

We agree. Presenting an array of informed perspectives and not just interviewing politicians makes for much better coverage, and is something we are striving to do more. However, we don’t believe that, taken overall, we have reduced the programming of news and current affairs at all. When you consider the amount of news we now provide via News Radio, our dedicated News TV Channel, our website and our mobile and third-party platforms as well as our ongoing commitment to flagship programs like our 7pm TV bulletins, AM, PM, The World Today, 7.30, Four Corners, etc…, we believe we have never offered more news and current affairs than we do today.

Katherine from Western Australia asked: Since ABC News 24 is funded by the Government; Do they have their stories screened by a government representative?

ABC:

Of course not. ABC News 24 is, like all parts of the ABC, independent of any political and government interference or pressure.

The ABC Charter enshrines the independence of the ABC. The Government of the day can share its views with the ABC, but has no legislative framework to interfere

91 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Political/Social Topics in the running of the ABC.

Chris from Western Australia asked: Do you take notice of complaining politicians?

ABC:

Any complaint24 from an audience member is treated with respect and evaluated for review by the ABC’s Audience and Consumer Affairs team.

Ian from Queensland asked: Over the years many politicians have tried to control and influence programming and reporting on issues by the ABC, especially when reports aren’t to their liking, calling the ABC un-Australian, boycotting appearances or reducing funding. What can we do to help free the ABC from interference, control and manipulation by politicians of all persuasions?

ABC:

The ABC Charter enshrines the independence of the ABC. The Government of the day can share its views with the ABC, but has no legislative framework to interfere in the running of the ABC.

Audiences are always welcome to voice their support for the public broadcaster. A well-funded ABC is a strong ABC.

Christiaan from Queensland asked: What is ABC management doing to respond to and protect the organisation from the continual funding threats and attacks from

24 http://about.abc.net.au/talk-to-the-abc/feedback-and-enquiries/complaints-process/

92 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Political/Social Topics government and other politicians who dislike ‘politically inconvenient’ facts being revealed?

ABC:

The ABC Charter enshrines the independence of the ABC. The Government of the day can share its views with the ABC, but has no legislative framework to interfere in the running of the ABC.

Elizabeth from Queensland asked: In this era of “commercially agendaed” news, the requirement for an impartial, expert source is imperative. When will Australian governments of all persuasions commit to funding the ABC adequately and reduce the repetitive echo chamber that sees a limited number of programs on radio and television, repeated 4 or 5 times. Information is power.

ABC:

Audiences are always welcome to voice their support for the public broadcaster. A well-funded ABC is a strong ABC.

Saskia from Victoria asked: How can we protect the ABC from increasingly undemocratic & self protectionist Governments?

ABC:

The ABC Charter enshrines the independence of the ABC. The Government of the day can share its views with the ABC, but has no legislative framework to interfere in the running of the ABC.

93 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Political/Social Topics

Eva from Victoria asked: The ABC is invaluable as a truthful, quality broadcaster in matters of public importance, political mediation and in support for the Arts. How can we be sure that right-wing extremism, masquerading as economic necessity will not take it away from us?

ABC:

The ABC Charter enshrines the independence of the ABC. The Government of the day can share its views with the ABC, but has no legislative framework to interfere in the running of the ABC.

Audiences are always welcome to voice their support for the public broadcaster. A well-funded ABC is a strong ABC.

Mike from New South Wales asked: How can the ABC help facilitate politically sensitive (i.e. newsworthy) two-way online community ‘conversations’ (Digital Q&A?) events between centralized Governments’ decision-makers, local communities, and far-flung volunteer nature conservationists (e.g. public lands currently being (mis/?) managed under bi-lateral Regional Forest Agreements in 10 regions spread over 4 States)?

ABC:

The ABC is always thinking about new ways to engage audience and improve their experience. We’ve passed your question on to the relevant content team. You may also want to join our Your Space group25 where you can continue to give us feedback on our programs.

Alison from New South Wales asked:

25 https://www.abcyourspace.net.au/Portal/default.aspx

94 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Political/Social Topics

What strategies does the ABC have to improve engagement with young adults in high schools? I would love to see a more inaction between the ABC and public schools. The ABC develops rich resources there should be a lot more collaboration. I am bringing my students to visit the ABC on Feb. Some don’t even understand that you are different to Channel 7 or 9, and that you represent them and are not for profit.

ABC:

In February, the ABC launched its new Education portal26 which now acts as one destination for all ABC educational content for school students and their teachers from Foundation Level to Year 10.

As part of this launch, the ABC also announced that it will develop a set of resources around media and news literacy to improve students’ engagement with not only the news but to help them navigate the news in a diverse media landscape. These resources will be available from Term 2 and in September the ABC will hold the inaugural Media Literacy Week which will focus on secondary school students’ development of skills and knowledge around media literacy.

In addition to this, you may also be interested in the range of community activities that we run across the year, such as last year’s War on Waste competition where we asked students to design a solution to one of the waste problems identified in the ABC’s television program “War on Waste”.

Over the past five years we have had wonderful engagement with public schools across the country through ABC Splash and we hope that this engagement continues to flourish, online, on air and in person.

Loretta from our Sydney audience asked: The ABC television news always has a segment on sport. How about a similar segment on the arts and science?

26 http://education.abc.net.au/home#!/home

95 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Political/Social Topics

ABC:

The ABC is committed to coverage of arts and cultural issues27. ABC NEWS is also currently forming a Specialist Reporting Team, which will include a senior specialist journalist dedicated to reporting on arts, culture and entertainment.

John from our Sydney audience asked: The ABC’s biggest weakness is its reliance on Government funding. Progressive Governments see the advantage of an unfettered media, and are happy to fund one. But with today’s resurgence of more... restrictive Government, what are your expectations into the future?

ABC:

The ABC is well aware of the importance of maintaining our independence and integrity as a public broadcaster, but we don’t consider our reliance on Government funding as a weakness. That’s because the ABC Act, underpinned by our own editorial policies, provides a strong statutory protection for us and ensures that we set our own independent, accurate and impartial agenda as a media organisation. In the future, with such a proliferation of information across many platforms from many sources and with a growing concern over ‘fake news’ and biased, unreliable information, the ABC is more determined than ever before to mark ourselves out as a trusted and reliable source of public interest journalism, and we are confident the need for us has never been greater.

Therese from our Launceston audience asked: How does the ABC feel about current serving politicians trying to silence it’s reporting?

27 http://www.abc.net.au/news/arts-culture/

96 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Political/Social Topics

ABC:

The ABC values and protects its independence.

The ABC Charter enshrines the independence of the ABC. The Government of the day can share its views with the ABC, but has no legislative framework to interfere in the running of the ABC.

97 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Programming

Gay from New South Wales asked: Why did you destroy Lateline?

ABC:

It’s always tough to finish programs, but like all news organisations ABC NEWS has to make choices about how we invest our budget to deliver the best service for audiences. Lateline was a highly valued part of our television line-up since its launch in 1990. Over the years, however, its point of difference faded, and its audience was steadily declining, by about 9 per cent a year. Its average 2017 metro audience across ABC TV and the ABC News channel was about 185,000 viewers. The program’s resources have been better utilised by being reinvested into the ABC Investigations team, the Specialist Reporting Team, and new programs Matter of Fact, National Wrap and a 10.30pm news bulletin. Viewers are as well-served as ever with daily and weekly television news and current affairs on ABC TV and on the ABC News Channel.

Anna from New South Wales asked: Why has PM and the World today been scaled down to half an hour each? They are valuable investigative programs.

ABC:

Elizabeth from New South Wales asked: Can the ABC Radio & TV re-instate/ strengthen its Religious Department

98 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Programming e.g. re-instate and increase programs such as “For the God Who sings” on Classic FM with more of such music - not just extremely late on a Sunday night; televising Sunday Catholic Mass and appropriate ceremonies for other religions; give greater time and emphasis to religions, classical religious music; religious issues - not confined to excellent, but short time programmes on Radio National?

ABC:

The ABC takes its role as a comprehensive broadcaster of quality religious programming very seriously and we are fully committed to protecting and growing, where possible, the range and content of our religious programs. There are a wide range of programs on ABC Classic FM and RN that deal with religious and spiritual topics and content. These include, as you have referenced already, For the God Who Sings on Classic FM as well as Heart and Soul, God Forbid, The Minefield, The Spirit of Things, The Philosopher’s Zone and the Religion & Ethics Report on RN. In fact, we have recently added a new program to our Religion and Philosophy line-up on RN with the launch of Citizen Jury, looking at the crossroads of ethics and public policy. We have also appointed the Religion Unit’s first digital producer who is taking our broadcast content to new audiences online.

Valerie from Victoria asked: Why has the ABC discontinued so many programs where journalists and guests discuss issues in depth? For instance, The Book Club, At the Movies, Lateline, Friday night 7:30, and now apparently One Plus One. Why is Q & A no longer repeated in the daytime? Aren’t we headed for a light and fluffy ABC and why?

ABC:

It’s always tough to finish programs, but like all news organisations ABC NEWS has to make choices about how we invest our budget to deliver the best service for audiences.

99 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Programming

Steve from New South Wales asked: ABC TV viewing is spoiled by relentless program promotion, why is it considered necessary to rum he same promotion up to 8 times during one evening, often delaying the starting time for other programs?

ABC:

The ABC invests in and produces a wide range of high-quality programs for audiences across all platforms. In such a saturated media landscape, we must ensure our audiences are able to locate that content and access it as readily as possible. We currently reach more than 70% of Australians and our strategy is to grow this figure. Telling audiences about new content is one way we can do this.

Peter from the Australian Capital Territory asked: Congratulations on holding this first public meeting...but the day and time suggests you’re only interested in the views of non-working people in the Eastern States. Those of us who are working are unlikely to be able to participate at 9am on a Friday, and people in WA will just be waking up. This doesn’t sound very sensible. Perhaps you should have consulted the Friends of the ABC about suitable times and processes to hold this event.

ABC:

Thanks for the feedback Peter. Future events will be held in different locations so all Australians in every part of the country will have the opportunity to take part.

100 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Programming

Loretta from New South Wales asked: Would the ABC consider regular segments in the news covering arts and science, similar to the sports coverage?

ABC:

The ABC is committed to coverage of arts and cultural issues as much as sport. Visit www.abc.net.au/news/arts-culture for more.

Shaquille from New South Wales asked: Will the ABC be reducing content outsourced and/or provided by third parties, example the BBC?

ABC:

We will continue to offer a mix of in-house productions and outsourced content as this represents the best use of our budget.

Terry from Victoria asked: Three programs, on TV Lateline and The Link and on radio in Melbourne Red Symonds in the morning, have recently been cancelled. Lateline was unique for its in depth reporting, The Link for its connection with people on the street, and Red Symonds for his delivery, humour and intelligence. Doesn’t the ABC value appreciate that these programs that offer what the commercial stations can’t or won’t are what loyal viewers love. What’s next, 4 Corners, Media Watch, Q&A?

ABC:

It’s always tough to finish programs, but like all news organisations ABC NEWS has to make choices about how we invest our budget to deliver the best service for

101 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Programming audiences. The resources from Lateline and The Link have been better utilised by being reinvested into the ABC Investigations team, the Specialist Reporting Team, and new programs Matter of Fact, National Wrap and a 10.30pm news bulletin. Viewers are as well-served as ever with daily and weekly television news and current affairs on ABC TV and on the ABC News Channel. In regard to Red Symons, we had hoped he would choose to stay with ABC Radio Melbourne following changes we made this year to our program slots. He chose not to.

Marcus from Victoria asked: What percentage of viewing time each day is now taken up with ‘repeats’ on each of the ABC television channels?

ABC:

The percentage of repeats on ABC television channels has remained relatively flat year on year. Repeat rates are tabled each year in the ABC Annual Report via the ABC Television Content Analysis tables and in 2016/17 the rates were: ABC main channel (24hrs) 49.6%, ABC2 (7pm-2am) 94.1%, ABC KIDS (5am-7pm) 95.6%, ABC ME (6am-close) 93.5%. The year prior, in 2015/16, the rates were as follows: ABC main channel (24hrs) 51.3%, ABC2 (7pm-2am) 92.9%, ABC KIDS (5am-7pm) 95.2%, ABC ME (6am-close) 92.2%.David from Victoria asked:

What sort of new Australian Children’s Programming is the ABC looking into running, producing and creating?

ABC:

ABC will continue its commitment to Australian children by championing their voices and showcasing their stories through a slate of diverse and inclusive programming across ABC ME and ABC KIDS28.

28 http://about.abc.net.au/press-releases/abc-unveils-stellar-childrens-programming-for-2018/

102 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Programming

Catherine from New South Wales asked: Will the ABC continue to support the local film industry in producing new drama or family series?

ABC:

Melissa from South Australia asked: What are the plans for locally developed children’s content?

ABC:

ABC will continue its commitment to Australian children by championing their voices and showcasing their stories through a slate of diverse and inclusive programming across ABC ME and ABC KIDS29.

Lawrence from New South Wales asked: When will ABC television programmers once science and the arts. The second digital channel which could have provided a platform for such programs has been used to recycle repeats of old comedies most of which feature transgressive humour. It is another example of dumbing down the ABC.

ABC:

The ABC has an ongoing commitment to specialist genres such as science and the arts. We have brought together our content teams and increased investment in both arts and science to maintain the quality and increase the volume of content

29 http://about.abc.net.au/press-releases/abc-unveils-stellar-childrens-programming-for-2018/

103 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Programming for all Australians. This content is available as programs and series on ABC TV main channel, iview, radio networks, ABC Listen, news programs, ABC websites and third- party platforms.

Rachel from Queensland asked: I would like to know why the ABC continues to show odd military programming from the UK, e.g. the Royal Military Tattoo, in prime time? I can’t see the cultural relevance Australia even as a middle aged import from the UK, If there is a need for some military thing then please mix it up with something like the Royal Tournament.

ABC:

Thanks for the feedback. We will pass it on to the relevant team.

George from New South Wales asked: Can you explain the ABC’s current plans for increasing TV Science programs?

ABC:

There is an ongoing commitment to specialist genres including science. We have brought together our content teams and increased investment in science to maintain the quality and increase the volume of science content for all Australians. This content is available as programs and series on ABC TV main channel, iview, radio networks, ABC Listen, news programs, ABC websites and third-party platforms.

Nyibol from New South Wales asked: What is the ABC doing to create more inclusion in terms of diversity (media representation of People Of Colour) as well as creating

104 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Programming entertainment content that people from various cultural backgrounds can relate to / feel included?

ABC:

The ABC Equity and Diversity Plan (PDF)30 for 2016-2018 guides the Corporation’s activities and operations and ensures we pursue the objectives of: . encouraging a culture of diversity, engagement and flexibility; . embracing diversity in the workplace; and . representing, engaging and connecting with various communities. This means being focused on leadership, communication, an inclusive culture and flexibility around work/life balance. It means opening yourself to the broadest possible infusion of talent and ideas. It means doing the best to retain the talent you already have in the workplace, like making sure culturally and linguistically diverse staff are not impeded by barriers. And at the same time, we will connect and engage communities through our great asset – our ability to tell great stories, to prompt conversations and to promote culture.

Hannah from Tasmania asked: Why can’t ABC News indicate what planned interviews will be shown each day and give an approximate time? there is time/space in the “news ticker”. I like to see the interviews but cannot sit in front of the tv but can go away and do stuff and come back and watch of a few minutes. This relates to the political interviews and routine interviews that happen on the week end. Thanks.

30 http://about.abc.net.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/EquityDiversityPLN2016-18_V1_0.pdf

105 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Programming

ABC:

Thanks Hannah. We have passed your email to our News, Analysis and Investigations team for consideration.

Kellie from New South Wales asked: Advertising new shows - could be better and more frequent. repeat good shows at better times not 10pm onwards. And Mid Summer Murders should be wrapped up and finished and not put on at prime time? Any chance Q&A could be on earlier?

ABC:

Our schedule is planned and structured to meet the expectations of as many audience members as possible. Thanks for your comments.

Sue from New South Wales asked: I live on the South Coast of NSW. I would like to be able to tune in to normal programming during the summer cricket season. Unfortunately, this is not an option in country areas,

ABC:

You can access the ABC’s digital programming in regional NSW by streaming our digital channels which you can find at abc.net.au or stream via your smart phone or portable device through the ABC Listen app. Another alternative is to purchase a VAST satellite dish which offers analogue radio services as well as digital radio channels.

Mike from Western Australia asked: Are you spreading your programming across too wide channelling? There are so many repeats across so many channels both Radio and TV.

106 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Programming

I am a pretty constant RN listener and the level of repeats has become particularly irritating. Not just from night to day but month to month and now in the Summer programming year to year. Can you not come to an agreement with the BBC or Deutsche Velle (English) and swap content? Has the ABC budget come to a tipping point?

ABC:

In answer to your comments regarding repeats on RN, we have always deliberately scheduled repeats of our key programs across the day and overnight to allow as many listeners as possible to access the broadcast content. We generally get very good feedback for approaching our scheduling in this way. The number of repeat programming on RN rises and falls each year dependent on changing priorities of our schedule. There has been a very small fall in original content of around three per cent over the past seven years. Most RN specialist programs are repeated twice in a 24 hour cycle, with one repeat scheduled in the overnight timeslot between midnight and 6 am.

Jacinta from Victoria asked: Is the ABC going to reduce the number of BBC and other English television programs it buys? (Midsummer, QI etc) and invest in more Australian content?

ABC:

In 2018 the ABC plans to increase its local production spend by 18 per cent with the majority of that going to Australian Independent Production Companies.

In from New South Wales asked: If the reasoning behind the ending of Lateline was due the excessive cost of producing a late-night program. Why was it not then produced from Perth or Western Australia? Where it would be broadcast in the

107 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Programming western evening, back to the Eastern States at its Late-night time-slot? It seems absurd to me, that such a pivotal program such as Lateline. Would need to go when the ABC has the infrastructure, to produce the program cost affectively!

ABC:

Margaret from New South Wales asked: Is it necessary for the Radio National to rebroadcast just so many programs during the night? There is so much more that could put on from say the CBC or BBC.

ABC:

RN’s sister station, ABC News Radio, carries BBC programs overnight, therefore we don’t look to duplicate. We know that we have a different listening audience for our overnight schedule, therefore we deliberately schedule repeats of many of our popular specialist programs in this time to allow new listeners to access the content.

108 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Programming

Genevieve from New South Wales asked: Why so many repeats?

ABC:

The ABC strives to broadcast a wide range of programs within its budget envelope. Repeats allow audiences every opportunity to access some of the best programs from both here and abroad.

Janette from New South Wales asked: Given the vast number of repeat or “encore” programs across ABC’s channels is it time to reduce the number of channels on offer? Given the budget cuts and that people can catch up on iView has the ABC exceeded its reach with its current offerings?

ABC:

Encore screenings or repeats provide additional opportunities for audiences to view programs after their premiere and can still attract a large number of viewers. As the range of viewing platforms increase, fewer Australians are tuning into program premieres on broadcast television and expect programs to be available for them to enjoy later at a convenient time and place – be that on broadcast as an encore or on iview. ABC has no plans to reduce its broadcast footprint at this time, but will continue to monitor and adapt to audience habits.

Terry from Victoria asked: WHY is there so much sport on the ABC, every show seems to have some sports content, we get regular programs just dropped or shunted onto the internet so that i cannot listen in the car,

ABC:

The ABC strives to offer as many audience members as possible the sorts of

109 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Programming programming they are interested in. We try to find the right balance and recognise that many audience members enjoy our sport coverage.

Michael from New South Wales asked: Where will long form interviews feature on ABC 1?

ABC:

The ABC’s flagship news and current affairs programs including Four Corners, 730, and Australian Story all feature long-form interviews.

Ian from Queensland asked: This Xmas break has been the worst ever for repeats on ABC TV. During weekends over summer there have been no new programs, either Australian or overseas origin. There are only endless repeats during peak times. Also, do we really need a whole channel just for comedy?

ABC:

The ABC strives toa broadcast a wide range of programs within its budget envelope. Repeats allow audiences every opportunity to access some of the best programs from both here and abroad.

Increasingly audiences are finding a lot of content online, and we made a strategic decision to broaden the remit of the digital channel on linear. ABC COMEDY is much more than just a new look for ABC2. It’s a whole new content offering across multiple platforms and audience touchpoints, includiag linear, digital, online and audio. It’s also an investment and commitment to Australian comedy and entertainment, creating more opportunities to bring the best comedy and entertainment to our audiences.

110 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Programming

Michael from New South Wales asked: When will the ABC be broadcasting on TV long form interviews, i.e. up to an hour?

ABC:

Have you watched the ABC News Channel’s One Plus One with Jane Hutcheon?

Mark from New South Wales asked: Why are there so many repeats on most if not all ABC television stations?

ABC:

The ABC strives to broadcast a wide range of programs within its budget envelope. Repeats allow audiences every opportunity to access some of the best programs from both here and abroad.

Mark from New South Wales asked: Is the ABC television budget so tight that you actually need to repeat so many episodes on multiple stations?

ABC:

The ABC strives to broadcast a wide range of programs within its budget envelope. Repeats allow audiences every opportunity to access some of the best programs from both here and abroad.

Ron from New South Wales asked: Why has the ABC decided to discontinue its very popular Lateline program on ABC television?

111 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Programming

ABC:

Ernest from Queensland asked: I am a 60 y.o. disabled man who provides constant care for an 84y.o. mate of mine so I don’t get out much and as a consequence rely on the A.B.C. for intelligent informed comment and debate and for light entertainment etc. I could only be persuaded to watch commercial T.V. if I developed a syndrome that compelled me to seek to be slapped about the ears by the flapping lips of an idiot (99% MALE) masquerading as a journalist so the following statistics disturb me and I want to know who is responsible. 168 hours broadcasting time available each week. 13 hours 45 minutes of Dr Who, not 15 episodes but 5 episodes played 3 times in a 24-hour period and these are repeats originally broadcast some years ago and repeated ad nauseum ever since. Let’s look at Rage. It varies a bit, but hovers around 25 hours a week. My maths is a bit rough but that looks like over 20% of the hours of broadcast on 2 shows.

112 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Programming

I could go on and document many other examples but I am sure you get my point. The A.B.C once a bastion of all that was good on television has lowered itself to the level of the co

ABC:

Thanks Ernest. Your observations have been passed to ABC Audience and Consumer Affairs.

Joan from Queensland asked: We would like to have included in your news & weather reports some commentary on how any particular event (ie. fire, flood, heat, storms) affects the wildlife and farm animals & vegetation of the area.....all we ever hear is how many ‘people’ were killed or affected.....we never have any reporting of the effects an event has on the local animal and plant life ! The current heat wave is a perfect instance.....all about people nothing about its effect on wildlife (deaths, population) or flora or crops. It’s NOT all about people.....the weather affects ALL life, which in turn affects us. This point needs to come across in all your reports.

ABC:

Thanks for your thoughts Joan. And while they don’t pay taxes and aren’t strictly speaking members of our audience, we love all wildlife here at the ABC. We have forwarded your comments to our News teams.

Allan from New South Wales asked: Is it true that you are going to produce an hour of music after The World Today? If so, why? And why are you reducing The World Today & PM to half an hour?

113 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Programming

ABC:

We have cut back the length of The World Today and PM on Local Radio in response to changing audience needs. More and more our audiences are accessing news and analysis throughout the day via digital sites and social media feeds. We believe therefore that they are looking for shorter, more focused news and analysis programs, particularly in the early evening. This change brings the programs into line with the 30-mintue morning edition of AM. We have introduced a new music and culture program, presented by Myf Warhurst, which runs nationally from 12.30 pm to 2.00 pm on our Local Radio network as well as on our regional stations. The decision to introduce this new national program was based partly on feedback from listeners across Australia wanting to hear a broader, more entertainment- based program in their weekday listening. We introduced Myf’s new show to answer that brief and to provide a mix of content from our regional, capital city and national teams. We have only just launched Myf’s program and it’s still settling into our national schedule with its production team responding to initial feedback on what audiences would like changed and what they would like to hear more of.

Brian from New South Wales asked: I would like to know why Lateline was shelved and is there any plans to replace it with another news service?

ABC:

114 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Programming

News Channel.

Wayne from Queensland asked: When Landline does an episode concerning agriculture why is it that that don’t show how the Primary Producer shows how they prepare the land. That is, ridding of weeds, levelling the patch of land that will be used for the growing of crops, like carrots etc. what and how they use insecticides during the growing period. Whilst it is appreciated that “time” is the essence in filming these programs surely a time lapse photography could be the answer. The program is one to watch as we see how our Farmers and Graziers make a living and how we get our food, but showing the first steps in the production of the commodity is just as useful to the viewer than the final result.

ABC:

Thanks Wayne. We’ve sent your views to the Landline team.

Gabrielle from Tasmania asked: when preparing programs do you take into account all demographics? Since as an 85year old I feel many older people find background music problematic; not having a computer or an I phone also disenfranchises us all.

ABC:

Yes, we aim to offer a wide range of programming across all platforms to all ages.

Bronwyn from New South Wales asked: When will the ABC programming start to truly reflect modern day

115 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Programming

Australia? The ABC has a lot of programmes from the UK. Many of these may be high quality, but we rarely see on our screens programmes from non-Anglo-Saxon countries. Also, there are many often repeated programmes on our screen. Many of these again from the UK.

ABC:

In 2018 the ABC plans to increase its local production spend by 18 per cent with the majority of that going to Australian Independent Production Companies.

Joy from Tasmania asked: Will the producers of ABC comedy have the courage to put on a program like the ‘Gilles Report’, rather than comedy shows full of foul language and schoolboy toilet humour as at present?

ABC:

Thanks Joy. Have you watched Shaun Micallef’s Mad as Hell or Utopia? They are available on iView and continue the satirical traditions of classic shows like The Gillies Report.

Kym from Victoria asked: I am keen to know when ABC will screen on TV and broadcast on radio some programs I am interested in. It is several years, now, since ABC began cutting back to fit the budget brought down by the Abbott government in 2014; when will this trend end? There are just too few interesting things on RN and ABC TV for my needs.

ABC:

116 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Programming

Investing In Audiences strategy is based on this commitment and guarantees the ABC is focussed on decisions that ensure the best outcomes for its audiences.

Debra from Adelaide asked: With a wide variety of programming available, including a very popular ABC back catalogue, why are so many shows repeated within a few hours of each other, and again the following day? The repetition can be off-putting, when there are great Australian-produced ABC shows from the past that have not been seen for many years, including late night classic movies.

ABC:

The ABC strives to broadcast a wide range of programs within its budget envelope. Repeats allow audiences every opportunity to access some of the best programs from both here and abroad.

Kaljit from New South Wales asked: ABC TV is very white. At what point will ABC start programming shows that represent Australian citizens specifically the multi-cultural communities from India, China, etc?

ABC:

The ABC Equity and Diversity Plan (PDF)31 for 2016-2018 guides the Corporation’s activities and operations and ensures we pursue the objectives of: . encouraging a culture of diversity, engagement and flexibility; . embracing diversity in the workplace; and . representing, engaging and connecting with various communities.

31 http://about.abc.net.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/EquityDiversityPLN2016-18_V1_0.pdf

117 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Programming

This means being focused on leadership, communication, an inclusive culture and flexibility around work/life balance. It means opening yourself to the broadest possible infusion of talent and ideas. It means doing the best to retain the talent you already have in the workplace, like making sure culturally and linguistically diverse staff are not impeded by barriers. And at the same time, we will connect and engage communities through our great asset – our ability to tell great stories, to prompt conversations and to promote culture.

Malcolm from New South Wales asked: This is more a comment. I want to say how much the ABC means to me. On Radio Particularly such programs as the Science show, Late Night Live, Saturday Extra, Counterpoint, Blueprint for living, The Spirit of things, The health report, The religion Report, the Minefield, RN Breakfast, 702 Breakfast, RN Drive, and others. I do appreciate all the hard work that goes into the research & production of the shows as well as the presenters who are marvellous eg Robyn Williams, Philip Adams, Geraldine Douge, Amanda Vanstone, Jonathan Green, Rachel Kohn, Norman Swan, Andrew West, Waleed Aly, Scott Stephens, Fran Kelly, Wendy Harmer & Robbie Buck, Patricia Karvelis and others. Thank you to the ABC for organising the Annual Public Meeting.

ABC:

Thank you, Malcolm, your support as a valued ABC audience member is very much appreciated by everyone who works here. And we are pleased to hear also that the APM was a well-received and worthwhile event.

Steve from Tasmania asked: Why so much repetition of content? I find I am listening to the same programs multiple times each week while other programs have gone missing.

118 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Programming

ABC:

The ABC strives to broadcast a wide range of programs within its budget envelope. Repeats allow audiences every opportunity to access some of the best programs from both here and abroad.

Christopher from Tasmania asked: Why has the ABC reduced its radio and TV news and comment coverage been reduced on free-to-air services?

ABC:

John from Western Australia asked: Can the ABC focus more on shining examples of Aboriginal achievement and leadership and less on politics?

ABC:

The ABC’s recently launched Specialist Reporting Team includes a dedicated Indigenous national correspondent (Bridget Brennan) and multiplatform producer (Isabella Higgins) who are covering all types of stories in this area across all our platforms.

From last year’s anniversary of the 1967 Referendum and Reconciliation week at Uluru to the Garma Festival and NAIDOC Week, the ABC has a very strong track

119 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Programming record of celebrating Indigenous culture and the contributions of our First Peoples.

Hilary from Queensland asked: Why on earth did you change the format of ‘The World’. It was a brilliant atmosphere with graphics and music that set the mood for Beverley O’Connor (and Oskar) to present the news in a new light highlighted by impressive in-depth interviews. In my opinion the new set takes away the ambience of ‘The World’ and diminishes the artistry of Beverley O’Connor who has an extraordinarily elegant ability to delve deeper into stories from the news. In my opinion, ‘The World’ is no different to all the other monotone news presentations.

ABC:

Thanks for the feedback Hilary. We regularly look for ways to keep programs fresh and interesting. We have passed on your comments to The World team.

Carol from Queensland asked: What sort of research and feedback do you seek before you make major change to programming (such as recent changes at ABC Brisbane).

ABC:

Any change made to a program or format is carefully considered and takes into account audience research. We encourage you to register with our Your Space feedback program32.

Robert from Victoria asked: Why are the current affairs programmes including ‘The World today’

32 https://www.abcyourspace.net.au/Portal/default.aspx

120 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Programming and ‘PM’ being cut in half?

ABC:

We have cut back the length of The World Today and PM on Local Radio in response to changing audience needs. More and more our audiences are accessing news and analysis throughout the day via digital sites and social media feeds. We believe therefore that they are looking for shorter, more focused news and analysis programs, particularly in the early evening. This change brings the programs into line with the 30-minute morning edition of AM. Most of our podcast programs are taken from our broadcast streams and are therefore available to listen to as part of our live programming on digital and on the AM and FM bands. We do have some podcast-only content but this is the minority of our content. Most of our key programming is made available as podcasts. We try and provide information on our website and through our on-air promotions to provide comprehensive information on how to access our content, whether it be scheduled program, podcast or on- demand product.

Terri from Victoria asked: When is the ABC going to stop repeating TV shows so often, and why is ABC local radio being dumbed down?

ABC:

The ABC strives to broadcast a wide range of programs within its budget envelope. Repeats allow audiences every opportunity to access some of the best programs from both here and abroad.

We don’t accept that ABC Local is being “dumbed down” – ABC Local Radio continues to broadcast the mix of news and intelligent conversation audiences have always expected of it.

Madonna from Victoria asked: The time allocated to ABC flagship current affairs programs: AM, The

121 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Programming

World Today, and PM, has reduced substantially in 2018. How does the ABC see the future for these programs and the foreign correspondents who contribute to them?

ABC:

Margaret from Victoria asked: Why are there so many repeats, especially now when we can podcast?

ABC:

We still need to offer audiences every opportunity to access in a reasonable time- period and many of our audiences still prefer to listen to broadcast radio.

Sam from Victoria asked: Will ABC be doing anything majorly new in 2018? What can viewers expect?

122 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Programming

ABC:

Hi Sam, perhaps the easiest way to answer this is to direct you to the APM site33 where you can have a look at what we have planned.

Elizabeth from the Australian Capital Territory asked: At the moment there seems to be a very truncated version of news programs on the radio e.g. The World Today. Does this mean this is how it’s going to be from now on? Also, why was Genevieve Jacobs stood down?

ABC:

We have cut back the length of The World Today and PM on Local Radio in response to changing audience needs. More and more our audiences are accessing news and analysis throughout the day via digital sites and social media feeds. We believe therefore that they are looking for shorter, more focused news and analysis programs, particularly in the early evening. This change brings the programs into line with the 30-minute morning edition of AM. Most of our podcast programs are taken from our broadcast streams and are therefore available to listen to as part of our live programming on digital and on the AM and FM bands. We do have some podcast-only content but this is the minority of our content. Most of our key programming is made available as podcasts. We try and provide information on our website and through our on-air promotions to provide comprehensive information on how to access our content, whether it be scheduled program, podcast or on- demand product.

33 http://about.abc.net.au/apm/

123 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Programming

Joanne from New South Wales asked: I am hearing a lot of repetition of programs rather than new content. ABC has the wherewithal to provide wonderful new programs for us with excellent people who know their work. Why isn’t this happening?

ABC:

The ABC is deeply committed to the programs Australians have always loved and expected from the ABC, programs that are of high quality, distinctive and Australian. The Investing In Audiences strategy is based on this commitment and guarantees the ABC is focussed on decisions that ensure the best outcomes for its audiences.

Jennifer from New South Wales asked: Could you please explain what research informed the ABC’s decision to lump similar themed programming on a night on ABC TV? (news night, comedy night, tired British comedy night etc). Has the ABC ever reviewed this programming policy or asked its viewers if they prefer this way to spreading out programs thematically over every day?

ABC:

ABC’s programming line-up has evolved in response to audience feedback and performance over time. It is constantly reviewed to ensure ABC delivers the best service possible within its means. In particular, ABC monitors the percentage of viewers that go from one program onto the next (as measured by OzTAM) to ensure the line-up is well matched and to understand where audience members are switching off. Audience insight has demonstrated that loosely themed nights retain audiences better and make it easier for audience to find and discover programs.

Ian from New South Wales asked: How come so many repeats now? Surely there’s plenty of content on

124 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Programming

BBC and NPR etc. Magazine digests could redirect us repeats online, which even on satellite or ADSL as audio would be fine.

ABC:

The ABC strives to broadcast a wide range of programs within its budget envelope. Repeats allow audiences every opportunity to access some of the best programs from both here and abroad.

Gaynor from New South Wales asked: Why do we have shows repeated so often!

ABC:

The ABC strives to broadcast a wide range of programs within its budget envelope. Repeats allow audiences every opportunity to access some of the best programs from both here and abroad.

Margaret from New South Wales asked: Over the Christmas period, we endured constant re-runs. Even breakfast news has been repeated in other timeslots. As a regular ABC, viewer this has become a real annoyance. and am concerned that this will become accepted practice. There was no acknowledgment by the ABC that us viewers were going to be subjected to this type of programming.

ABC:

The ABC strives to broadcast a wide range of programs within its budget envelope. Repeats allow audiences every opportunity to access some of the best programs from both here and abroad.

125 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Programming

Niall from New South Wales asked: More than ever before it is important for All Australians that we have an ABC that truly has the ability and the funding to properly report on and analyse state and federal politics and policy and international politics that impact on Australia. Will the ABC fund a program similar to Stateline and Lateline again?

ABC:

Ivan from New South Wales asked: Q&A Hosting Duties, as well as the Producing, ought to be put on a regular rotational basis; perhaps Four Hosts, Tony, Virginia, a younger host and a different guest host, each of whom who appear once every four weeks (Two new producers, should also be welcomed aboard). This would ensure the show to be consistently fresher.

ABC:

Thanks Ivan. Our executive producers and their teams are always thinking of new ways to keep favourite programs fresh. Q&A uses different hosts at different times, including Tom Ballard.

126 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Programming

Amanda from New South Wales asked: I would like to know on what research the decision to cut in half the quality journalism and in-depth analysis on The World Today and replace it with a meaningless Spotify list of songs was made? Will this decision be reviewed? I am appalled (and yes, I like Myf) but the program is unnecessary. I am perfectly capable of choosing my own song list. Please bring back the other half hour of The World Today.

ABC:

Rosemarie from New South Wales asked: Can the program “Late Line” be re-instated? I don’t understand why it has been cancelled. I found it was very informative and a programme of great merit. It woke the public up to issues which needed to be highlighted.

ABC:

The decision to end Lateline reflected changing audience needs and habits.

However, the ABC’s commitment to quality, independent journalism is stronger than ever. Current initiatives include forming two new teams: ABC Investigations, Australia’s largest dedicated daily investigative team, which will include 10 top investigative reporters working across programs and platforms; and the Specialist Reporting Team, a team of reporters and producers which will bring in-depth, expert reporting to core rounds including: Technology & Science; Regional

127 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Programming

Communities; Consumer Affairs; Education; Health; Arts, Culture & Entertainment; Social Affairs; and Indigenous.

Ian from New South Wales asked: Why has Lateline which gave a longer format for talented ABC journalist to pursue in more depth current affairs issues been discontinued. This flagship program has provided in-depth analysis of current affairs issues over many years.

ABC:

The decision to end Lateline reflected changing audience needs and habits.

Josiah from our Launceston audience asked: Could the ABC put on new songs of praise shows from the BBC?

ABC:

International acquisitions have been an important part of our schedule in the past, but our primary focus is on Australian content that reflects our culture and community, holds national conversations and tells your stories. We’re actively investing more in it and, as a result, there’ll be fewer international repeats in the future.

128 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Programming

Kelly from our Launceston audience asked: How will ABC ensure that the programs are relevant to everyday life so our kids can gain as much knowledge as possible to help them in the world and what’s sorts of shows.

ABC:

Students, teachers and parents can now rely on the ABC as an education resource with ABC Education34. This is a one-stop destination that provides access to thousands of curricula related interactive tools and articles alongside links to the Behind the News archive. The Democracy section offers ABC educational resources for teaching history to primary and secondary students.

34 http://education.abc.net.au/home#!/home

129 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Quality

Josh from New South Wales asked: How will the ABC continue to fulfil its charter responsibilities to enrich the lives of Australians through the arts and in particular music, when it has made huge cuts to funding and staff, and subsequently broadcasting quality, at ABC Classic FM? What is the agenda?? Why has the ABC embarked on the programme promotion - is this to prepare the public for advertising on the ABC?

ABC:

We are as fully committed as we ever have been, to ensuring the ongoing health and relevance of our classical music network – ABC Classic FM. Our agenda for Classic FM is to uphold its position as the pre-eminent Australian classical network and to maintain its unique role in this country’s classical music scene. Changes we have made this year are to ensure Classic FM retains its important role in Australian classical music. We have introduced a development manager to foster closer partnerships with the leading classical music organisations and ensure Classic FM has the best possible relationship with the classical music industry. While it is true there has been presenter changes on the network this year, I believe we have introduced some tremendously talented new voices to Classic FM. Ongoing quality is paramount to Classic FM’s reputation, and all presenters have been chosen for their strong classical music knowledge and involvement in the Australian classical music scene. And finally, we can categorically say we are not preparing the public for advertising on the ABC!

Tania from New South Wales asked: Why is it that the vast majority of children’s and children’s animated programs allowed onto ABC Television are extremely violent, poorly conceived (RE: social cohesion, compassionate interaction, logic, cause and effect, reasoning, sexual- equality, animal rights, respect for Nature, and many of the other social “norms” that we as parents are trying to instil into our very young children)... and are effectively anti-

130 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Quality social and toxic to those standards and behaviours most parents are trying develop in our children? The early morning when parent can catch a well earned sleep-in and that afternoon crunch time between 2:30 and 5-6pm when parents/ mothers are juggling washing/folding/ ironing, evening meal preparation, older children’s return from school and homework... are fantastic opportunities to engage young and older children in educational programs: anything from learning to read write and count to explaining life, water earth cycles astronomy and quantum physics and chemistry, entrepreneurship, and any number of quality educational programs becoming available ....with an Australia

ABC:

Feedback from audiences35, good or bad, is important to us. If you noticed something in particular on a program, please share your concerns.

Joseph from Queensland asked: I like to know why everyone refers to ABC as the “repeat station”. The programming is full of programs you repeated, once and twice, over the year. For instance, Grantchester has been repeated twice in 2017 and is still being repeated in 2018. I also like to mention that the ABC has now resorted to buying poor quality ITV programs rather than the quality BBC programs that it used to show. I understand that, apart from programs like Dr Who, the organisation is now restricted from showing BBC programs due to the latter’s link up with Foxtel and other

35 http://about.abc.net.au/talk-to-the-abc/feedback-and-enquiries/ 36 http://education.abc.net.au/home#!/home

131 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Quality pay TV channels. It’s a great pity that the once proud ABC is reduced to repeating poor quality ITV programs day-in-day out.

ABC:

Jillian from Tasmania asked: Will you retain Radio National as an ‘ideas network’ & NOT dumb it down???

ABC:

Radio National is a national treasure and we’re committed to maintaining that status. The changes for 2018 underscore specialisation. There are new screen, arts, stage and book programs. We’ve also launched a pop culture program with presenters that have PhDs and a master’s degree. Radio National is all about quality and furthering thought and debate in this country.

John from New South Wales asked: Why does the ABC bombard viewers with so much unnecessary rubbish between programs? When finally, the absurd John and his screaming dingo pop up there is only one result - you turn off before you descend into a fit of apoplexy.

ABC:

The ABC invests in and produces a wide range of high-quality programs for audiences across all platforms. In such a saturated media landscape, we must

132 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Quality ensure our audiences are able to locate that content and access it as readily as possible. We currently reach more than 70% of Australians and our strategy is to grow this figure. Telling audiences about new content is one way we can do this. We also receive feedback that we’re not doing enough to tell people about our programs.

Frank from New South Wales asked: Why does it appear that programs such as the 7.30 report have been both largely depoliticised & dumbed down?

ABC:

News teams break stories that start national conversations, frame debates, lead to Royal Commissions and hold accountable politicians on all sides. Every journalist is trained in Editorial Policies, then re-trained, re-assessed and peer reviewed to ensure that we deliver journalism that is accurate, independent and impartial. We’re aiming to build the largest daily investigative journalism team that the ABC, and probably Australia, has ever had. This is at a time when other media organisations are reducing the size of their newsrooms.

Paul from Victoria asked: 774 Very annoying. 4 different volumes. Loud - Your promo, Next - music, if you can call it, remember most singers yell. next presenter and last outside caller. Pity you don’t have a mute button. I used to be a 24/7 abc listener/watcher. Have dropped 7.30, Q&A 4 corners. Presenters do not ask the right questions.

ABC:

Thanks Paul and sorry to hear you are having these issues. We’ve passed on your comments to ABC Audience and Consumer Affairs.

133 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Quality

John from South Australia asked: What steps is the ABC taking to ensure that all presentations on scientific subjects are based on the best available evidence?

ABC:

Our science broadcasters are renowned for their expertise and specialisation. Not only are they highly informed about their specialist area, but they also adhere to the highest standards of broadcast journalism through our commitment to ABC Editorial Policies.

Geoffrey from the Australian Capital Territory asked: My question is related to ABC policy. I am concerned about what appears to be the corruption of the Australian English by the use of US English in written and spoken ABC content. Is there an ABC policy that preserves the use of Australian English? Also, could all news and weather reporters please use millimetres when reporting rainfall. Some are saying mills which is the abbreviation of millilitres. Please see the BOM website: http://www.bom.gov.au/ climate/cdo/about/rain-measure.shtml Thank you!

ABC:

There is no ABC policy around the preservation of Australian English, or any policy explicitly aimed at language. However, language is dealt with by some sections of the ABC’s legislative framework and editorial policies. The ABC Charter mentions broadcasting services of a high standard, and that such programs should reflect the cultural diversity of the Australian community. Also in the charter is a duty for the ABC to inform and educate, which it does through the production of educational resources, as well as through international portals such as Learn English.

134 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Quality

You can go to ABC Pronounce37 and make suggestions for appropriate pronunciation.

The ABC has discussed language use with the Bureau of Meteorology and they see no issue with the use of mils as a contraction. In the context of broadcast weather reporting, it is incorrect to say mils is a contraction of millilitres. It is clearly functioning as an abbreviation of millimetres, rather than a spoken form of the SI unit of measurement mL.

Margaret from New South Wales asked: The quality of news bulletins on ABC Classic FM has slipped. What is being done to return to pre-2018 standard?

ABC:

All ABC news bulletins meet the same high standards and expectations of our Editorial Policies and journalism guidelines, regardless of the platform or program. Without more specific information this question is difficult to answer fully. We invite you to send more details to ABC Audience and Consumer Affairs.

Bob from New South Wales asked: What is the management at ABC doing to eliminate the left bias of all ABC journalists and presenters, without exception, and enforce the Charter requirement of “fairness, balance and impartiality,” so that all ABC viewers, left and right, can feel value for their tax dollar, and regain some faith in the integrity of the ABC?

ABC:

The ABC Charter and our Editorial Policies ensure the ABC delivers to audiences the fair and balanced reporting expected of it, without fear or favour. The Charter

37 http://www2b.abc.net.au/abcpronunciation/

135 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Quality and Editorial Policies, together with the professionalism and dedication of our journalists, are the reason most Australians view the ABC as their most trusted source of news.

Paul from New South Wales asked: How can the ABC claim to be independent of the Government, and to have much credibility, when it broadcasts hours of what is effectively Government advertising in programmes like “Keeping Australia Safe” and this week’s Four Corners “The Billion Dollar Bust”?

ABC:

Paul from New South Wales asked: How is it that good quality news programmes like The World Today on ABC Radio have been cut from 1 hour to 30 minutes, when rubbish like Q&A, which is really just entertainment, goes on and on and on?

ABC:

The decision to end Lateline reflected changing audience needs and habits.

136 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Quality

Phillip from New South Wales asked: The ABC previously cut down major radio news bulletins so reports can spend more time on stories but this seems to be the expense of less current affairs programs eg PM and World Today air cut by 50? Axing Lateline and previously axing Lateline Business and state based public affairs. When is this cutting going to stop?

ABC:

The decision to end Lateline reflected changing audience needs and habits.

137 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Quality

Social Affairs; and Indigenous.

Mike from our Sydney audience asked: We don’t have TV so we are devotees of ABC 702 and Central Coast 92.5. We generally listen to the 7:45am and 6:00pm evening news, but there are 2 issues in news broadcasts with useless “grabs”. A little more imagination would go a long way. The second annoyance are one or two word witness comments. Often, they do not amplify any part of the journalist’s presentation. An example, say a witness saw an explosion where the journalist states there was a loud explosion and the witness in the “grab” says ”Yes, there was a loud bang”. Some are of those pointless “grabs” are even shorter and useless such as “tragic, (long pause then), very tragic”.

ABC:

Thanks Mike, we’ve passed on your comments to our teams in ABC News, Analysis and Investigations.

Mary from our Sydney audience asked: One of the things I value most about the ABC is the quality and accuracy of your news and current affairs reporting. With the competition from other popular news sources of variable quality, how will the ABC maintain its standards of quality, accuracy and balance into the future?

ABC:

Our commitment and investment in news and current affairs remains stronger than ever. Current initiatives include forming two new teams: ABC Investigations, Australia’s largest dedicated daily investigative team, which will include 10 top investigative reporters working across programs and platforms; and the Specialist

138 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Quality

Reporting Team, a team of reporters and producers which will bring in-depth, expert reporting to core rounds including: Technology & Science; Regional Communities; Consumer Affairs; Education; Health; Arts, Culture & Entertainment; Social Affairs; and Indigenous.

139 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Local and Regional Access/ Content

Sholto from Western Australia asked: When the ABC news bulletins remade for WA such as the news at noon or the early edition, why do they not include more local and regional content?

ABC:

The WA Midday bulletin is a national bulletin broadcast from the News Channel. It is meant to be a national bulletin as a point of difference from the local 7pm News.

Bobbie from Western Australia asked: Question: Did anyone organising this event consider that it would be starting at 7o’clock in the morning in Western Australia? Answer: It was either not even noticed, or if noticed and considered, was ignored. Pretty much exemplifies the attitude of the Sydney Broadcasting Corporation.

ABC:

We chose three geographically diverse locations for our first meeting, Rockhampton, Launceston and Sydney. Any future meetings will be hosted in different locations. The time slot was chosen to allow engagement with the widest possible audience available. In future years the ABC will hold the event at other times.

David from Victoria asked: ABC Gippsland broadcast local content from 6am to noon Monday to Friday and a short Saturday morning show. I believe most local radio has similar with the rest of the time being state and national shows. Is there a plan to a) bring more local content to air and b) better balance the local programs so not all in the morning block?

140 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Local and Regional Access/ Content

ABC:

There are no plans to produce more local content than we already do. We believe we are providing the best possible balance of local, state and national content working within our existing resources. We deliberately schedule as much local content in our morning timeslots as this is the peak radio listening period.

Annette from Western Australia asked: Apart from the local news and one host on Gardening Australia, I see very little evidence of support of the WA community. Light entertainment programs often reference east coast politics, but rarely is WA mentioned, and if we do score a mention, it can be poorly researched or even wrong (eg. Tonightly incorrect reference to GinGin on 10/01/2018 implying racist naming, rather the towns actual name origin is from the local Noongar language). This has even been reflected in holding this meeting at 7am on a Friday morning for Western Australians. How does the ABC address my concern in the lack of the ABC being ‘my ABC’, but rather the East Coast’s ABC?

ABC:

The ABC aims to reflect, and be relevant to, all Australians in our commissioning and programming of content. To help ensure full geographical diversity in our content, over recent years ABC has commissioned a number of entertainment programs from WA – ranging from documentaries to short form comedy series. ABC NEWS has a WA newsroom, as well as a network of journalists working out of regional offices, and a dedicated digital news homepage that focuses on coverage of local news and issues.

We’re also excited to have a number of major series coming up from WA, including Mystery Road the series and Don’t Stop the Music. However, we of course always welcome feedback on how we could do a better job and appreciate the feedback

141 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Local and Regional Access/ Content to ensure WA is considered in all matters including the scheduling of the APM. The ABC also takes advice from the ABC Advisory Council, which includes a number of constituents from WA, on how we can do the best job at reflecting all Australians.

Peter from Western Australia asked: I live in regional WA and the town where I live cannot receive the local ABC (Mid West and Wheatbelt). I have written to many people about this and all acknowledge that our region suffers from signal loss due to local topography and geology. I asked about getting the transmission via satellite as it is the only station in WA that is not accessible through VAST and therefore capable of being re transmitted here in town. This is because the signal is not digitized. We are losing out on local content that is specific to our area as well as emergency information. Can this be rectified? Put simply, nobody can listen to the local ABC in Jurien Bay or Cervantes in their house. Most have given up trying

ABC:

Regarding the strength of the signal in regional areas, this differs in each region depending on where you are located and the distance you live from the transmitter. Alternative listening options include listening via live stream at abc.net.au or through the ABC Listen App on a portable device such as your smart phone or tablet.

Carol from Queensland asked: The reporting of news on ABCFM is city centric. It would be a change to include rural and remote news and weather relevant in the state that the news is being delivered to. Is this possible?

ABC:

All local ABC radio stations – metropolitan and regional – tailor their programming

142 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Local and Regional Access/ Content to their local audiences. The ABC has a network of 56 local stations throughout Australia which service their local markets with local information.

Julia from Queensland asked: What is the point of all your great shows if the signal is not strong enough for us to watch them? I spend half of the year at Bucasia 4750 and the other half at Beachmere 4510. At both places, at peak times, the picture just breaks up into boxes yet I can get other channels, even SBS.

ABC:

Thanks Julia and our apologies for this issue. One of our technical teams is looking at this issue and we will send you some advice directly once they have identified the problem.

Kevin from Victoria asked: Is the ABC intending to make more regional/local information programs beyond Back Roads and Landline?

ABC:

We highly value our relationship with audiences in rural and regional Australia. In fact, already this year the ABC has launched a new weekday evening regional radio current affairs program, Australia Wide, hosted by journalist and presenter Sinéad Mangan.

Karl from New South Wales asked: Cessation of shortwave broadcasting of Radio Australia: was there any consideration of Shortwave radio’s unique role in reaching the poorest and more remote of our island neighbours who may not have access to FM or internet, but who year in year out have to deal with cyclones,

143 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Local and Regional Access/ Content earthquakes, tsunamis, floods and the like? Another increasingly important aspect is the potential for RA to be used by Australia to assist in its employment of “soft power” in the Indo-Pacific region, to inform and communicate to the grassroots, not just the elites (who are able to access information by other methods).

ABC:

Michael from Western Australia asked: Why is there so much pre-recorded radio broadcast into W.A. In the high listening time of 8am to 7pm we have over 40% of our local radio pre- recorded mostly on the east coast and broadcast 3-4 hours in delay. Why have you put a new program on Myf Warhurst 4 hours in delay and why does Myf insult people in W.A. and constantly ask us to contact the program when we can’t. Please change our abc radio in W.A. to LIVE AND LOCAL. Stop treating the people of W.A. with contempt. You have a lot of tax payer’s money that is derived from W.A. deliver live radio please. What you are doing in W.A. wouldn’t be acceptable in Sydney or Melbourne. Thanks for the opportunity I look forward to hearing your answer and in the future having 100% live and local ABC radio in W.A.

144 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Local and Regional Access/ Content

ABC:

We do not broadcast more than 40 per cent of pre-recorded radio content between 8 am and 7 pm in W.A. In the peak listening period from 6 am to 7 pm, 8 ½ hours are locally produced with another 30 minutes (Australia Wide) being produced out of W.A for a national audience. The only two programs that are time-delayed are Myf Warhurst’s show and Australia All Over. Our current affairs programs, AM, The World Today and PM are all updated for our West Australian audiences with WA presenters and producers. We believe this is the right balance of national, state- wide and local programming working within our existing resources.

Jan from Western Australia asked: For many years, I have been growing deeply disturbed by ABC cuts to regional, remote and non-eastern state critically essential balanced political and social interest programming. Media ownership changes are undermining our capacities to gather essential knowledge for democratic understanding and citizenship. Will the ABC urgently address its of informing all Australians?

ABC:

We highly value our relationship with audiences in rural and regional Australia. In 2017, the ABC announced its Connecting Communities initiative which saw a funding boost of $15.4 million to its regional teams for the creation of up to 80 reporter, presenter and producing roles.

Mary-Jane from Victoria asked: NSW/Sydney bias is too much. For example - weekend news on RN is always NSW biased (especially sport). RN breakfast newspapers roundup seems to never include the Age etc. 7.30 on television has, proportionally, way too many NSW stories. Please redress this or lose listeners/watchers in other states.

145 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Local and Regional Access/ Content

ABC:

Thanks Mary-Jane, we will review the current balance of coverage.

Melanie from New South Wales asked: I am concerned that the ABC is promoted as ‘Your LOCAL ABC’ when, over the past 12 months its seems that our rural and regional radio is anything BUT local. Often morning broadcasts cover large swathes of the State and/ or 2-3 regions are covered. Why is this happening? Radio is a vital communication tool throughout rural and regional NSW. If the ABC is going to promote itself as local, then it needs to deliver.

ABC:

In 2017, the ABC announced its Connecting Communities initiative which saw a funding boost of $15.4 million to its regional teams for the creation of up to 80 reporter, presenter and producing roles.

Robert from New South Wales asked: How could you justify shutting down the shortwave service in the top- end of Australia to save $1m to use on digital broadcasting for those that already have access to ABC services. Your charter is to provide services to all Australians.

ABC:

146 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Local and Regional Access/ Content include English and in-language audio content. The ABC remains confident the reinvestment from closing international shortwave services will maximise the ABC’s broadcast capabilities in the region.

Zoe-lea from our Sydney audience asked: The ABC, as a network, has prided its self on bringing news and information to regional, rural and remote areas. It has also taken up the challenge across its range of media outlets to present regional stories, which is something that people in rural and regional areas can often relate to. With the budget cuts that the ABC continues to face will it be regional or rural programs that suffer, and the stories of rural and regional people that get forgotten? If not than how do the ABC plan to ensure this?

ABC:

Yes. We highly value our relationship with audiences in rural and regional Australia. In 2017, the ABC announced its Connecting Communities initiative which saw a funding boost of $15.4 million to its regional teams for the creation of up to 80 reporter, presenter and producing roles.

Penelope-Jane from our Rockhampton audience asked: I’ll give the background to the question, then the question, in order to help the folks working through questions understand why I’m asking it. Background assumptions: • The ABC continually strives to be relevant at the national level on Australian and international news, and also to include content from regional Australia. • ABC news across multiple platforms have dedicated segments to traffic updates.

147 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Local and Regional Access/ Content

• In the past, ABC was the only source of traffic news for freight operators and commuters. Now days, people who need to know about road conditions can sign up for automated alerts or seek out information via State Government systems that have a greater coverage than just the main roads the ABC usually reports on (e.g. https://traffic.vicroads.vic.gov.au/ ). This makes the ABC content largely redundant within the broader media environment. • The trend in capital cities is towards public transport and cycling, and away from highways that are having a declining significance in cities (as evidenced by examples such as the significance of the current Sydney trains disruptions). • Of the over 24 million people, only 6.5 million are people who commute to work by car according to the 2016 Census. Of these, only a tiny portion would use the specific national highway roads included in these traffic segments during their commute. Of these, a smaller portion again would be consumers of ABC content. • If we tune into ABC news content on radio and TV, people in regional Australia and people who do not use the specific roads should sit through this irrelevant content in these fixed traffic update dedicated segments time after time, day after day… often with the annoyance that the time is used simply to report that there is nothing to report (no incidents or breakdowns etc)! Question: With over 24 million people in Australia, why do a small number of main roads in capital cities have dedicated segments (traffic updates) across the ABC’s national news platforms? Would the ABC be willing to reallocate these slots to news of national significance sourced from regional Australia, with news about the traffic on these selected roads raised in the news when it truly is a newsworthy incident of national

148 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Local and Regional Access/ Content significance? I love our ABC and am making the suggestion with the best of intent as a simple media consumer who wants to see the ABC successful in staying relevant and engaging. P.S. ABC Radio currently outsources these segments to the Australian Traffic Network to removing it could offer new opportunities for regional content that does not impact on ABC journalist jobs!

ABC:

The ABC provides a network of stations in our capital cities which provide comprehensive news and information for and about those cities - including regular traffic updates. Our national music and talk networks have different briefs but still include shorter news, weather and traffic information segments to keep their audiences informed of key events in their locations. We believe most of our national networks’ listeners appreciate this service. In regard to regional content, we work hard to include as many stories from regional and rural Australia as possible in our daily news bulletins and programs across all our networks, particularly on our capital city stations. Our regional network broadcasts a dedicated 30-minute program, Australia Wide, weekdays from 6.00 pm to 6.30 pm covering the major stories of the day out of regional Australia. This program is also broadcast daily on Radio National from 7.35pm.

Charles from our Rockhampton audience asked: Can you ensure ABC Regional is recognises as of prime importance to its audience, covering matters impossible to cover from a centralised location, and also to the ABC as a training ground? When I think of “Your ABC, I think of ABC Capricornia as our friends.

ABC:

149 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Local and Regional Access/ Content reporter, presenter and producing roles.

Justin from our Launceston audience asked: My question comes from my industry. I work as a NEIS consultant. The NEIS is the New Enterprise Incentive Scheme which gets people who are interested in a small business into small business by providing training, mentoring and support for free and if they are on a Centrelink benefit are given a support payment. My question is the ABC is the NEIS program by 2020 will produce 10% of all new businesses in Tasmania, what opportunities could be there for community interaction and how they have improved their lifestyle because of it?

ABC:

Thanks Justin. It’s not clear this is a question for the ABC.

Margaret from our Launceston audience asked: Will the ABC continue to expand its dialogue with all Australians throughout the country so that the priorities of all age groups and those living in rural and urban areas are represented in planning decisions so that management does not rely solely on ratings and program sampling?

ABC:

150 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Local and Regional Access/ Content

Donna from our Launceston audience asked: I would like to express strong support for our local ABC Radio station for its commitment to and very practical support in building community and keeping us up to date with local issues. Will the Board commit to continuing support for such local stations and so fulfil its charter to ALL Australians?

ABC:

Absolutely. The ABC is deeply committed to its audiences everywhere and ABC Local Radio remains a central pillar in our broadcast footprint.

Graham from our Launceston audience asked: I often enjoy watching excellent documentaries produced in Britain by the BBC and it always heartens me to see in the credits that these documentaries are produced in areas all across Britain, be that, for example, in Wales or Scotland. The ABC also produces excellent documentaries, but can the ABC please commission more documentaries for production in regional areas in Australia? Tasmania has an emerging film and TV production capacity and if the ABC commissioned more TV production in Tasmania that would help that existing capacity flourish.

ABC:

ABC aims to be relevant to all Australians and that includes proactively managing its slate of programs to ensure they reflect the full breadth of regional diversity in Australia. Tasmania has a highly talented emerging film and TV production industry and Rosehaven, now in production for its third series, is a great example of the quality and success of Tasmanian output. Rosehaven was the #6 overall program on ABC iview last year, and is much loved by audiences Australia wide. Other programs commissioned out of Tasmania in recent years include Bespoke

151 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Local and Regional Access/ Content

(an Arts documentary), Death or Liberty and Mary and Mohammed (both feature documentaries) and NoirHouse (a short form comedy series), and in January 2018 ABC acquired the Tasmanian documentary The Wake of the May Queen.

152 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Other Topics

Peter from New South Wales asked: Ex prisoners need support and communication to achieve a better future. A country is judged buy the way it treats it’s population but there seem to be very ungenerous solutions to assist with this need.

ABC:

If you have specific question relating to this, please contact ABC Feedback and enquiries38.

Maurice from Queensland asked: Why did the comedienne say c*** instead of vagina or maybe pussy on Pickering last night?

ABC:

Thanks Maurice.

Vanessa from Western Australia asked: Would it be possible to eliminate background music when there is speech? It reduces understanding of the message quite a lot.

ABC:

Thanks Vanessa, we will pass this on to the appropriate team.

Stewart from New South Wales asked: What does the ABC intend to do to harness viewers/listeners

38 http://about.abc.net.au/talk-to-the-abc/feedback-and-enquiries/

153 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Other Topics knowledge of various social subjects that should be investigated? Online Wikipedia type site? Forums?

ABC:

Our focus is to create or acquire content that is informative, entertaining and educational. This is our core business and what we concentrate our efforts on. If you feel strongly about a particular subject and you would like to see it covered, please contact ABC Feedback and enquiries39.

Joan from New South Wales asked: should ABC employ more ethnic presenters?

ABC:

The ABC has an Equity and Diversity Program designed to eliminate discrimination and promote equal opportunity for women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people from non-English speaking backgrounds and people with disabilities. Read about our targets (ABC Equity and Diversity Play, PDF)40

Christene from New South Wales asked: Why not just get a larger Sydney venue so more of us ‘welded on’ ABC listeners can attend? Cricket ground, Moore Park, The Domain, Entertainment Centre, etc.

ABC:

We’d love to share the Annual Public Meeting with as many people as possible and those venues would certainly allow more people to attend, but we would have to pay for them. ABC buildings don’t cost us anything to use.

39 http://about.abc.net.au/talk-to-the-abc/feedback-and-enquiries/ 40 http://abc.net.au/reports-publications/equity-and-diversity-plan-2016-18

154 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Other Topics

David from Victoria asked: Why does the ABC allow its presenters on ABC Classic FM to use their programs as platforms for their personal brand establishment, by repeatedly letting the listener know who they are, either directly by saying so throughout the programs, and indirectly by playing a pre- recorded identification made for them by another presenter????? That is NOT what the listeners really want.

ABC:

It is standard industry process and one that is applied across all our radio platforms to let listeners know at regular intervals, which network, program and presenter they are listening to. We have found that most of our listeners appreciate this service and have had very few complaints regarding this.

Margaret from Victoria asked: Why does ABC management make changes with a view to attracting new audiences but in the process, alienates and loses its loyal long term audiences.

ABC:

We have absolutely no plans to reduce our presence on TV or Radio. We will continue to invest in them and improve them. But audiences are changing and we need to produce and deliver programs across all platforms that are high quality, distinctive and Australian.

Jennie from New South Wales asked: Would you consider changing the on screen graphics, particularly with regard to the weather report and graphs. They are cluttered, complicated and the day by day temperature graphs not only

155 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Other Topics unreadable but not on screen for long enough.

ABC:

Thanks Jennie, we will pass this on to the appropriate team.

Ian from the Australian Capital Territory asked: When are you going to have other cities involved for the public meetings?

ABC:

This was the first year we have held an annual public meeting and we chose three geographically diverse locations for our first meeting, Rockhampton, Launceston and Sydney. Any future meetings will be hosted in different locations.

Joan from Victoria asked: Will management listen and to the views of their listeners and viewers after this meeting?? What is the agenda?? Why has the ABC embarked on the programme promotion - is this to prepare the public for advertising on the ABC

ABC:

The ABC Board and Leadership team want to listen to what you have to say and that’s why we held this meeting. It also allowed them to share our plans for the future. The ABC values, and is committed to, its role as a publicly funded organisation and understands that we only exist with your support. There are no plans to introduce external advertising on the ABC.

Stephen from South Australia asked: When will “Closed Captions” for the hearing-impaired be universally

156 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Other Topics available on ABC News 24?

ABC:

Primary channels, such as ABC TV, are captioned 6am to midnight. Many ABC NEWS programs are captioned, including Matter of Fact, News Breakfast, Mornings with Joe, ABC News at Noon (seven days a week), The Drum, Planet America, The Mix, 7.30, The Business, One Plus One, Weekend Breakfast, Insiders, Offsiders and Landline.

Rhona from Queensland asked: There is much anger at the right-wing political content & comment & panellists & more Labor pressers/interviews interrupted in favour of Coalition. Slanted news-blatant, evidence- based. Is the agenda to break-up & sell off portions? So much more, wish I could be there. We want ‘Aunty’ back. Please look at responsible, educated comments on Twitter for feed-back.

ABC:

Thank you. We will take that as a comment.

John from Queensland asked: My question for possible presentation is whether our Australian society is currently being ravaged by the sad consequences of narrowed understanding of what can deliver the “good life” for all Australians? The current “Religion and Ethics” broadcast series or the once featured “Religion Report” could perhaps be broadened by involving presentation by widely read, religiously unbiased and culturally embracive people who could reveal value to discounted people who sometimes have no voice. Wider understanding of consequences of past national and community misjudgements could open us all to

157 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Other Topics wider wisdom. Perhaps the current traumas of personal self-harm, relationship failures and cultural bitterness might even be better addressed by political language change, replacing Party “opposition” with Party “monitoring”.

ABC:

We will take that as a comment.

Jocelyn from Victoria asked: Please could you make the intervals between shows (ad breaks) longer? The way it is at the moment there isn’t even enough time to go to the toilet, let alone make a cup of tea as well. Not everyone has access to mobile device to cart around the house and most of us wouldn’t want to take it to the toilet anyway.

ABC:

Yes, the ABC aims to keep is breaks between programs reasonably tight; a standard ABC break is approximately 90 seconds. The impact of duration of breaks is closely monitored. On the one hand we need to ensure they are long enough to inform viewers about upcoming programs and provide a breather between programs, and on the other hand we need to make sure they are not so long that viewers switch off between programs.

Graeme from Victoria asked: Why is the ABC renaming stations and increasing self-promotion advertisements? The self promotions are now using up almost as much air time as commercial stations advertisements. Is the ABC being prepared for sale?

158 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Other Topics

ABC:

The recent ABC2 change to ABC COMEDY was undertaken following extensive audience research which identified a lack of understanding and awareness of the ABC2 brand and confusion as to whether it was an overflow channel or catch up channel. The Comedy content of ABC2 was highly regarded and therefore, we rebranded the channel following audience feedback – both the content and naming was tested and ABC COMEDY was launched.

As for the second part of your question, Audience research tells us that the main way our audience learn about our products and offerings is via promotions. Unlike the commercial networks, we don’t rely upon advertising revenue.

No, the ABC is not being prepared for sale.

Neil from New South Wales asked: According to an article in The Guardian on 30th Jan 2018 entitled “ABC dismantles sound libraries and axes staff to improve budget” this action is being taken to “free up floor space and save on wages.” What will be the use for the floor space thus saved seeing as this will not be for production staff or facilities? We have not said the space will not be used for content or production purposes. The reality is space is limited at ABC Ultimo. PLEASE CHECK

ABC:

The ABC is in consultation with our staff and unions regarding proposed changes to our library and as such no final decisions have been made about those changes or the use of floor space.

Phil from our Sydney audience asked: In Australia we are very fortunate to have effectively two public broadcasters; ABC and SBS. is it not possible and indeed beneficial to

159 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Other Topics combine all the backroom functions fo the ABC & SBS while retaining the individual brands? Would this not enable the two networks to achieve better economies of scale and avoid any duplication or competition between SBS and the ABC?

ABC:

A merger is a matter for the Government. However, the ABC is more than happy to work with SBS to ensure greater efficiency in public broadcasting to better meet the needs of taxpayers, for example we have recently struck a deal to share our indigenous content with NITV to enhance their programming schedule.

Christaan from our Sydney audience asked: Why not hold these public meetings at a more appropriate hour, say 2pm Sydney time? It would mean people in WA need not be live streaming at 7am.

ABC:

Future events will be held in other locations to ensure all audience members have an opportunity to take part.

David from our Rockhampton audience asked: With the partnership with Netflix for Glitch, will we see more partnerships of shows with Netflix or other streaming services like Disney’s soon to be released service or Amazon or others and is the ABC pursuing such partnerships?

ABC:

The ABC sees partnerships with other content producers as an important way of ensuring Australian content survives in a saturated media landscape. It also ensures audiences receive more value for money from the ABC as any revenue

160 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Other Topics earned from such partnerships can be returned to generate more content.

John from our Launceston audience asked: One very important aspect of the quality of ABC television broadcasts that defines my choice of channel other than the integrity of the intelligent content is the general absence of private sector advertising as opposed to normal program reminders and promotion. Will ABC TV continue to with this important philosophy of non-commercial broadcast space or will it head down the same path as SBS?

ABC:

Our legislation precludes the ABC from ever carrying advertising. This legislation would have to be changed by the government of the day for us to ever allow advertising.

161 AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED