The ABC has backpedalled on a contentious decision to replace its eight Sunday 7pm local TV news bulletins with a single national broadcast after facing considerable backlash from the public.
In June, ABC unveiled significant changes as a part of its updated five-year plan, including a move to eliminate local Sunday broadcasts and the unfortunate cut of 120 positions. Central to this overhaul was the shift to transform the broadcaster into a predominantly digital-focused media entity, which was expected to bring about substantial savings.
However, in light of strong feedback, ABC’s managing director, David Anderson, informed staff of the change in direction. In his note, Anderson articulated,
“It’s evident from the audience feedback that a section of the Australian public still depends on the local Sunday night state bulletins.”
While this specific plan has been scrapped, Anderson confirmed that other initiatives introduced in June will move forward. One such initiative is the digital-first ‘Stateline’, slated for Friday night broadcasts. This extended 40-minute bulletin will be produced from state and territory newsrooms and helmed by local 7pm anchors.
Looking ahead, Anderson emphasised the ABC’s strategic vision for the next five years.
“Our Five-Year Plan is geared towards a future where most of our audience will engage with ABC via digital platforms like ABC iview, ABC News, and ABC Listen,”
The transition to digital is reflective of a broader industry trend, as media companies, both domestically and internationally, recalibrate their strategies in response to rapid technological advancements and shifting audience preferences.
Nevertheless, Anderson reassured Australians of ABC’s unwavering commitment to traditional broadcasting.
“We are fervent advocates for local news, recognising its indispensable role in communities, particularly in regions where commercial media presence is dwindling.
Our dedication to offering local news across both broadcast and digital channels is unparalleled,”
ABC board and Chairwoman need to be fired and the ABC News reporters need a huge overhaul and makeover use to be probably the best news provider in TV/Radio until the liberal coalition guttered it’s funding then appointed liberal people to the board instead of keeping it non bias and just reporting the news not have liberal bias negative opinion based garbage journalism!!!!