Media Release
Senator the Hon Stephen Conroy
Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy
Deputy Leader of the Government in the Senate
Minister Assisting the Prime Minister on Digital Productivity
Submissions to strengthen ABC and SBS
The Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy, Senator Stephen Conroy, today released more than 2,400 public submissions that were received in response to the discussion paper on the future of the ABC and SBS.
"The great wealth of commentary made to this public consultation is a testament to the passion Australians have for the ABC and SBS," Senator Conroy said.
"These submissions will help shape our national broadcasters over the next decade and ensure their future strength and independence as they continue to play a central role in Australia's emerging digital landscape."
"The enthusiastic response we have received, with more than 2,400 submissions, confirms that the ABC and SBS are two of Australia's most important and loved public institutions. They have entertained, educated and informed generations of Australians."
"From today, these submissions are available online for all to read. I expect the submissions will spur some lively debate about the future of national broadcasting."
The Rudd Government announced the public consultation with the release of a discussion paper, ABC and SBS: Towards a digital future, in October 2008. Submissions closed on 12 December 2008.
The consultation called for submissions on how the ABC and SBS should be positioned to best respond to the challenges and opportunities of the emerging digital, online and global media environment.
"I have noted the interest a number of submissions have shown in the national broadcasters providing a diversity of high quality programming and content, including children's programming, Australian drama and content in languages other than English," Senator Conroy said.
"The Government will certainly be taking note of these submissions as we consider the next funding round for the ABC and SBS and consider policies for the long-term future of public broadcasting in this country."
More information and the submissions are available at: www.dbcde.gov.au/abcsbsreview
-ends-Date: 23 January 2009
Contact: Tim Marshall 0408 258 457
