MEDIA RELEASE 26 July 2004 – for immediate release
Attention: Chief of Staff

‘A New Board Appointment System – As Easy as ABC’

Friends of the ABC today renewed their call for a bi-partisan, de-politicised system of ABC Board appointments following comments by Michael Kroger and Rod Cameron on ‘Lateline’. (23/7/04).

Friends Spokesperson Margaret O’Connor said ‘Kroger and Cameron’s comments were disturbing. Kroger evaded the important question of how to ensure relevant expertise on the Board, and, worryingly, Cameron described the concept of 'some element of community involvement' as being 'nice in theory'.’

‘But is it really all too hard?’ said Ms O’Connor. ‘Surely Kroger and Cameron are aware of the Nolan Rules, a system of Board appointee selection which ensures some transparency, independent short-listing of applicants, a selection criteria ensuring relevant skills and experience, and public advertisement of vacancies. This will ensure Board appointees are chosen for ‘what they know’ rather than ‘who they know’. The process, however, does not entirely take the responsibility for appointments out of the Government’s hands, with the Minister making the final selection.’

‘This system, implemented successfully in the UK, has certainly proved to be more effective than 'nice in theory'. The Friends believe that such a system, which creates more of a partnership between the Government and the community, should be implemented here also in relation to ABC Board appointments. This would enhance public confidence in the Board and in the political process generally. As a community group the Friends have been very persistent about promoting an improved Board appointments process. The ABC, and the Australian people, deserve no less.’

ENDS

For more information call Margaret O'Connor on 0422 975848 or email on margoforte@hotmail.com