16th Oct 2018, 3:56 PM – Senate Committees - Environment and Communications References Committee - Refer to Committee (ABC + political interference)

The majority voted in favour of a motion introduced by SA Senator Sarah Hanson-Young (Greens). This means the matters set out below will be referred to that Committee for an inquiry.

Another motion on this issue was introduced on this same day. The difference between the two motions was which Committee the matters would be referred to:

• the Environment and Communications References Committee (this motion); or
• the Finance and Public Administration References Committee (the other motion).

Motion text

That the following matter be referred to the Environment and Communications References Committee for inquiry and report by 29 March 2019:

The allegations of political interference in the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), with particular reference to:

(a) the termination of ABC Managing Director, Ms Michelle Guthrie;

(b) the conduct of the Chair and the Board;

(c) the structure, composition and appointments of the ABC Board;

(d) the political influence or attempted influence of the Government over ABC editorial decision-making, including:

(i) outcomes of the Competitive Neutrality of the National Broadcaster Inquiry and Efficiency Review - ABC and SBS, and

(ii) the role of funding uncertainty in facilitating political influence;

(e) governance, legislative and funding options to strengthen the editorial independence and strength of the ABC to prosecute its charter obligations; and

(f) other related matters.