A new kind of interference in the future of the national broadcaster

First, the government has used the digital legislation to hobble the ABC's use of spectrum in a hitherto unprecedented way.

Until now the ABC's activities have been limited only by its Charter and its funding. The advent of digital broadcasting however, has given the government new opportunities for a makeover of the ABC.

The government has intervened directly by determining the way the ABC can use its spectrum - without regard to its charter. Instead there are limits on what the ABC can offer on its multi- channels, including in the important area of news.

It should be sufficient that its Charter, its assessment of audience needs and expectations and funding, provide a framework for the ABC.

The second alarming development - and one which the ABC is in danger of cooperating with by itself - is what looks to be "tied grants". In its search for funds the ABC is going to Canberra with detailed plans for funds to be spent in particular ways - as in education and rural programming.

Shortly before I left the ABC a member of the Board wanted to specify business and local programs it would make with the coming triennial funding. Had we done so I believe the ABC would have impaired its own independence in a fundamental way.

Instead in the triennial funding submission which was lodged with the government in December 1999 the ABC presented documented evidence of its efficiency and effectiveness in all areas of its operations, measured against the commercial industry and international comparisons with other public broadcasters.

The ABC also argued for additional funds to increase regional programming on radio, TV and online, to increase Australian content, especially on television and importantly for additional money to produce cost efficient and innovative content for the new multi-channels.

The government refused to engage with the efficiency arguments or to give serious consideration to the claims for additional funds for the three core areas – regional, Australian content and digital.

The additional digital funding would have made it possible for the ABC to have led the way in the digital age with integrated new channels. The government knew this before the legislation that allowed the ABC to offer circumscribed digital channels was passed in June last year.

When the Minister says that the ABC under my administration did not seek additional funds for digital content he seems to have forgotten this triennial funding submission. So much for the consideration the ABC’s case received in Canberra.

How long do you think it would be before it was the case that the government gives the ABC funds for, say, education but not for current affairs?