Labor won’t scrap ABC and SBC ombudsmen in favour of external body as suggested by antisemitism envoy
Summary
The Albanese government says it will not replace the ABC and SBS ombudsmen with an external oversight body, as the antisemitism envoy proposed. The government says the Australian Communications and Media Authority can already review escalated complaints, and it may consider further changes after a royal commission reports in mid-December.Key Facts
- Antisemitism envoy Segal proposed an external independent ombudsman to review ABC and SBS coverage of the Gaza war.
- Segal said the body should assess whether the broadcasters meet their stated standards for accuracy and impartiality.
- The ABC and SBS said their complaints processes are subject to external review by the Australian Communications and Media Authority.
- Government sources said the authority can investigate complaints escalated beyond the broadcasters’ ombudsmen.
- A spokesperson for Communications Minister Anika Wells said the government would continue working with Segal and others to combat antisemitism and strengthen social cohesion.
- The Royal Commission into Antisemitism and Social Cohesion is scheduled to report in mid-December.
- Jewish and Palestinian advocacy groups expressed differing views about Segal’s proposal and its effects on oversight and freedom of speech.
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