Labor Rejects Proposal to Replace ABC and SBS Ombudsmen with External Body

The Albanese government has confirmed it will not pursue a recommendation to scrap the internal ombudsmen at the ABC and SBS in favor of an external oversight body. This decision regarding the Labor ABC test of media accountability comes after antisemitism envoy Jillian Segal suggested transferring the powers of current internal complaint mechanisms to an independent external authority.

In an updated list of priorities released last month, Segal proposed that an external body should monitor the coverage of the war in Gaza by public broadcasters. She argued that such a measure would ensure these entities are held accountable to their stated standards of impartiality and accuracy. Segal noted that many in the Jewish community feel one-directional reporting contributes to hostile views toward those who support Israel. She suggested that the government should model this change on existing structures in the telecommunications and banking sectors.

The government will retain current ABC and SBS ombudsman structures rather than creating a new external body.

Existing Regulatory Frameworks

Government sources indicated this week that the Australian Communications and Media Authority (Acma) already functions as an external, independent regulator. Officials noted that Acma possesses the authority to investigate complaints if they require escalation beyond the internal processes of the ABC and SBS. At the time of the proposal, the ABC maintained that its complaints process is among the most robust and transparent in the Australian media landscape, with both broadcasters emphasizing their existing accountability to Acma.

Segal’s proposal has drawn varied reactions. Alex Ryvchin of the Executive Council of Australian Jewry supported the call for external oversight, while the Jewish Council of Australia criticized the plan, comparing it to "Trumpian" tactics and suggesting it could threaten freedom of speech. The Australian Palestine Advocacy Network also opposed the move, arguing that criticizing Israel is a matter of human rights and should not be conflated with antisemitism.

While the government has rejected this specific proposal, it remains focused on broader efforts to combat antisemitism. A spokesperson for Communications Minister Anika Wells stated that the government would continue to work with the Jewish community and the special envoy to strengthen social cohesion. Further policy changes may be considered following the release of the final report from the Royal Commission into Antisemitism and Social Cohesion, which is expected in mid-December.

Why it matters

The government's decision maintains the current independence of public broadcasters while relying on existing regulatory bodies like Acma to handle escalated complaints. This ensures that the established internal review processes at the ABC and SBS remain the primary point of contact for public concerns, avoiding a structural overhaul of media oversight mechanisms.