Friends of the ABC today congratulated Russell Balding on his appointment as Managing Director of the ABC.

"Mr Balding has a distinguished leadership record", said Darce Cassidy, National Spokesperson for Friends of the ABC. "While his editorial experience is limited, Mr Balding's track record as Acting Managing Director since the departure of Jonathan Shier in October last year is strong", he said.

"After the chaos and confusion of the Shier regime, Mr Balding has worked with the ABC management team to put the ABC back on an even keel. While there is much that is yet to be done, the ABC is in a much stronger position than it was under Jonathan Shier"

"Mr Balding will face many challenges. Not least will be the need to restore adequate funding to the ABC. Following cuts to the ABC budget of around 30% over the last decade, the ABC is finding it difficult to fulfil its charter responsibilities. In particular, it needs to increase its output of Australian drama and documentaries on television. The ABC also needs funds to enable it to participate fully in the emerging digital environment. Mr Balding, and the ABC board, will need to make a convincing submission to the government when the ABC's triennial funding comes under review in the lead up to the next federal budget."

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Contact Darce Cassidy, National Spokesperson, Friends of the ABC
Phone 03 9349 4280
Mobile 0412 685 178
Email darce@friendsoftheabc.org