John Stirton, Associate Research Director of A.C. Nielsen Australia noted:

"Many politicians may be surprised by Australians’ perceptions of the media, especially those most vocal about the alleged bias of the ABC. Brian Johns, the departing managing director of the ABC, would be much encouraged by the fact that 70 per cent of Australians believe that ABC coverage of news and current affairs is more balanced than that provided by the commercial networks. "
(The Age 20 March 2000)