Please can we have this message sent Victoria wide - A very important
meeting for listeners & supporters of the ABC:
IMPORTANT MESSAGE FROM FRIENDS OF THE ABC:
Every individual, every organisation in Australia has an interest in the
future of Australia's independent national broadcaster. The ABC informs the
public and explores important issues, stimulates and entertains us. It
scrutinises the activities of governments and other powerful forces.
Importantly, the ABC strengthens our culture through its exploration of
Australian life in all its variety.
Your active support is needed to let the ABC's new managing director know
the public will not allow the ABC to be commercialised.
FABC Vic. 2000 AGM
Thursday 9th November
6.45pm for 7 pm
(guest speaker 8 pm)
Assembly Hall
156 Collins Street
Melbourne
Guest SpeakerJonathan Shier
ABC Managing Director
New members welcome. Join at the door.
In disregard of the ABC's significance to all Australians, and the legal
requirement of independence from government, the ABC's new Managing
Director, Mr Shier declared the government to be the ABC's single
shareholder. He has signalled the diminution of television and radio
current affairs. A major restructure of the ABC is taking place without
public consultation and talented staff are departing. Barely back in
Australia after 23 years, Mr Shier dispensed with experienced staff,
recruiting several key appointments for their commercial experience. It is
reported Mr Shier wants increased emphasis on ratings and is considering
the introduction of advertising on the ABC's Online service.
This may be the only chance the community gets to let the ABC's new
managing director know what they want. It is important people attend in
droves-to express support for your ABC, to inform Mr Shier that it is the
people of Australia who are its shareholders and that our national
broadcaster's independence must not be risked through advertising,
sponsorship or commercial deals.
Independence from government and business allows the ABC to scrutinise the
activities of government and other powerful forces. It enables the ABC to
be innovative, and to be a comprehensive broadcaster catering for diverse
interests. Independence can only be guaranteed if the ABC is fully funded
by government.
Further information: Friends of the ABC (Vic) Inc.
Phone (03) 9682 0073 Fax (03) 9682 0074.
website www.fabc.org.au/vic email [EMAIL PROTECTED]
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