In this year's Boyer lectures, five speakers are exploring the theme Australia: A Radical Experiment in Democracy. Last week Justin Wolfers gave the first lecture.

Wolfers projected optimism as he extolled those Australian institutions that are the foundation of our prosperity and our democracy. Our independent public service, our voting and political systems, merited special praise.

But there was a glaring omission: the ABC. Without a free and independent media, willing to uncover hard truths and call the powerful to account, it's much easier to undermine democracy.

The ABC's investigations have exposed numerous weaknesses in our democratic institutions - often at considerable cost.

In Queensland, for example, Joh Bjelke-Petersen controlled the government for 19 years through a gerrymandered voting system. His corrupt government attacked civil liberties, trounced democratic conventions and intimidated opponents. Yet it was elected regularly, often with large majorities, because Petersen manipulated the voting system.

It was left to the ABC to expose Bjelke-Petersen's corruption. Chris Masters' Four Corners program The Moonlight State, along with reporting by Quentin Dempster, led to a public inquiry and, ultimately, the government's downfall.

During its first term the Albanese government reviewed options to support the independence of the national public media organisations. The government has still not yet released its response – but it must act.

Justin Wolfer's optimism and defence of Australia's institutions was infectious and inspiring. But the rapid deterioration of democracy in the US has shown how easily institutions can decline.

We can be proud of our democratic institutions, but we mustn't be complacent. The ABC must be protected, nurtured and celebrated.

Since 2022, the Albanese government has provided $8 million per year for the ABC's Indo-Pacific Broadcasting Strategy (IPBS). ABC Pacific is now a trusted voice in the region, connecting our neighbours with news, music, sport and conversations for all ages.

But funding is set to end in June next year and the government has not committed to its renewal. 

Please join our call to Ministers Penny Wong and Anika Wells to renew and extend this outstanding program.

The ABC gets a taste of Donald Trump's medicine

Donald Trump's recent attack on John Lyons was another reminder of just how important it is to have a robust public broadcaster dedicated to telling the truth. It's imperative that ABC management continue to support their journalists against unwarranted attacks.

Podcast of the month: Conversations

Conversations is an ABC podcast hosted by Richard Fidler and Sarah Kanowski. Each weekday they talk to someone with a story to tell — from household names to hidden gems — uncovering the moments that have shaped their lives.

Hugh Marks is optimistic about the ABC's future

"The first thing I found when I started at the ABC was that people were fearful of making decisions, of making mistakes" Hugh Marks told Cassandra Parkinson and Carol Stuart when he met with them in September. It's a message he returned to at a dinner hosted by ABC Friends NSW/ACT.

So, how can you change a culture from fear to courage, he was asked.

"Protect your team, "he said. And allow them to fail without fear of punishment."

The ABC and social media

Social media is playing an increasingly significant role as a news source for Australians. The ABC is no exception.

In this article, Chair of ABC Alumni, Michael Ward, charts the growth of social media as a source of news for Australians and the ABC’s success in finding new audiences on social media platforms. The article highlights some of the issues that face public service media organisations around the world, including the ABC.

Back by popular demand! Reusable cups

We love these handy reusable ceramic vacuum cups. Available in three great colours — pale blue, rust and sage green.

No more throw-away coffee cups!

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