Parliament to consider sweeping changes to the way ABC board members are picked
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An influential crossbencher will exploit the Morrison government’s slim grip on power in Parliament to float a radical overhaul of the ABC board selection process, including establishing US Senate-style confirmation hearings.
In an “urgent” four-stage reform plan that would delay the appointment of a new chair and managing director at the embattled public broadcaster, Fairfax Media can reveal independent senator Tim Storer is gathering cross-party support to amend legislation that dictates how ABC board members are selected.
He has also proposed an end to political battles over the $1.3 billion annual cost of the ABC and SBS by establishing a mandatory, independent and public review of their government funding every three years.
The ABC board is under pressure after last week’s disastrous firing of managing director Michelle Guthrie and subsequent resignation of chairman Justin Milne, who wanted high-profile reporters Andrew Probyn and Emma Alberici sacked because they were unpopular with the Coalition government.
Ms Guthrie, who was dumped just halfway through a five-year contract, is still considering her legal options and may pursue court action against the government. She and the board directors who unanimously agreed to terminate her $900,000-a-year job are also expected to be called to give evidence at a parliamentary inquiry that threatens to expose more damaging details about the turmoil at the top of the ABC.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison put the broadcaster’s board on notice on Sunday, saying he expects them to “do better”.
Article source: http://www.cinemablend.com/previews/1678910/mollys-game
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