Democratise and federalise 'Our ABC'

As well as democratising the ABC, it should also be federalised.

Whatever the electoral system, it should ensure the equal representation of states and not fail to neglect regional Australia. Each state could be divided into two electorates, one in the capital city agglomeration (e.g. Sydney/Wollongong/Newcastle), the second the rest.

Few would argue that the ABC - with its world view relayed through an extraordinarily vast number of outlets, stretching even into print - is not in desperate need of reform. The ABC, being responsible for the dissemination of information, is unique and should be treated as such.

Those in the government who feel this problem is best left in the too hard basket should recall G.K. Chesterton's observation that "the whole modern world has divided into conservatives and progressives. The business of the progressives is to go on making mistakes. The business of the conservatives is to prevent the mistakes from being corrected." This is an opportunity for Tony Abbott to demonstrate that he has the vision, foresight and fundamental strength of character to address a problem which goes to the very fabric of Australian society.