Sign petition against ABC cuts

By Jennifer Leete

Federation has expressed concern funding cuts to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) have led to cuts to educational programs, news and current affairs and to the ABC's cadet training program.

A petition for members to protest these cuts (which have arisen directly from the Howard Government's rejection of the recent triennial funding submission put forward by the ABC Board) has been circulated to all schools and colleges.

The consequent cuts arise directly from the Howard Government's decision to engage in an exercise of "political pay-back" against the ABC. The refusal by the Howard Government to do anything other than maintain current real levels of funding undoubtedly has a direct connection to the Federal Government's unfounded allegation of bias on the part of the ABC over its coverage of the recent Iraq war.

While many members have been outraged and moved to action as a result of the decision to axe Behind the News (BTN) the reality is that this is just one consequence of a much more serious problem. The Howard Government has systematically promoted the destruction of the ABC as an independent news source and through funding cuts has sought to reduce its role as both an educator and venue for the exposure of original Australian cultural contributions.

Educational programs produced by the ABC provide a valuable resource for students and teachers in public schools and colleges across the nation. These programs are particularly important for schools and students in socio economically disadvantaged communities.

Federation will be making representations to the Federal Government and the ABC Board in a campaign to have the funding cuts reversed.

The union will also work cooperatively with the Labor Council, other unions and community groups to achieve the restoration of realistic funding to the ABC. This includes the Media, Entertainment and Arts Alliance and the Friends of the ABC.

A defend the ABC concert and family picnic will be held on Sunday September 14 noon-2pm in the Domain, above the carpark.

In the meantime, sign the petition and get parents and students at your school to sign it.

Jennifer Leete is the Deputy President.

ABC concert and family picnic

ABC petition

For further information

August 2003 contents