Jane Hume (Victoria, Liberal Party, Minister for Superannuation, Financial Services and the Digital Economy) Share this | Hansard source

Senator Griff, I doubt that anyone in this chamber would call the ABC compliant or dependent. In fact, the ABC were 'delighted with the Government's decision to commit $3.3 billion over the next three years to the ABC'. That's a direct quote from the chair of the ABC, Ita Buttrose. In fact, she said that that funding agreement:

… will allow the national broadcaster to continue doing what it does best—provide information and entertainment to Australians wherever they live.

In fact, David Anderson, the managing director of the ABC, said:

I welcome the funding certainty this announcement brings to the national broadcaster for the next three years.

He said:

The triennial funding announcement is an important recognition that the ABC is needed now more than ever, and this funding is required so it can continue to fulfil its vital role in our democratic society.

He even reached out and thanked Minister Fletcher and the government for recognising the enduring value of the ABC, particularly in this year, as they mark 90 years of serving all Australians.