The Minister for Communications, Michelle Rowland, has opened consultations into a review of options to support the independence  of the ABC and SBS.

Speaking at a dinner of ABC Friends in Sydney on Thursday night, the Minister outlined the terms of reference for the review, which she first announced in October 2022.

The Minister said the review will consider how best to provide greater certainty for announced funding. Funding certainty supports the stability and independence of the national broadcasters and guards against political interference, she said.

The Minister advised that the review will also consider governance arrangements to protect against political interference, such as examining the appointment processes for the ABC and SBS Boards. Strong governance will support the national broadcasters to fulfill their obligations to provide independent national broadcasting services for the benefit of all Australians.

Some issues, including the quantum of funding, funding terms or funding models, will be 'out of scope' for the review.

ABC Friends will seek the views of our members and supporters as we prepare a submission to the review.

More details including a consultation paper with the terms of reference, can be found here.

Written submissions are required by 31 August 2023.

Cassandra Parkinson
National President
ABC Friends