Safeguard the ABC's voice in our region
The Indo-Pacific Broadcasting Strategy has made the ABC a trusted voice across our region. But funding expires in June 2026. Without early renewal, four years of building trust across the Indo-Pacific will be undermined.
Time is running out: The government must commit before the end of this year or the ABC will be forced to start planning redundancies and winding down operations.
This isn't just about broadcasting. It's about Australia's soft power, our relationships with neighbours, and trust in our region at a time when disinformation is rampant and media freedom is in retreat.
Why this matters
- Regional trust - the ABC connects our neighbours with news, music, sport, and conversations. ABC Pacific is a trusted voice in the region.
- Local voices - The Pacific Local Journalism Network tells stories by Pacific Islanders, for Pacific Islanders, with nuance and care.
- Strategic presence - The program is a critical part of the the government's Pacific Security and Engagement Initiatives.
Take action now
Use the form on this page to write to Ministers Penny Wong and Anika Wells. Tell them the government must renew and extend the ABC's Indo-Pacific Broadcasting Strategy.
Key points to include in your email
- Urgent renewal needed - funding must be committed by the end of this year
- Indexation matters - without it, the ABC delivers less content each year as costs rise
- Modest investment, massive return - $9.2 million indexed annually builds trust and friendship across our region
- Go further - Doubling to $20 million would the enable the ABC to offer much more. It would help fill the gap caused by the withdrawal of US funding for international media
- Why you care - Share your personal connection to the ABC's international role and regional relationships
Read this article to find out more details you can include in your email.
Please write to Ministers Wong and Wells today.