While the ABC is independent of government, the government can exercise some control by the power of the purse. The government of the day appoints the members of the ABC Board, which can also be a means of influence. The Rudd government has indicated that they
Since 1976 the ABC has been under threat from both major parties when in government, either through inadequate funding, failure to incorporate rising costs into budgetary allocations, reduction of staffing levels and controversial staff and board appointments.
Whichever party is in government, Australians need to remain vigilant to ensure that the ABC is adequately funded and free from the influence of partisan appointments to the Board and senior management.
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