ABCandSBSTowardsadigitalfuture-IRCA.PDF

ABC and SBS: Towards a digital future Discussion paper October 2008 Table of contents Foreword 1 Introduction 2 1: The role of national broadcasting 3 2: Harnessing new technologies to deliver services 5 3: Informing and entertaining Australians 9 4: Education, skills and productivity 15 5: Social inclusion and cultural diversity 17 6: Presenting Australia to the world 20 7: Efficient delivery of services 23 Appendix A: Submissions process 26 Appendix B: Overview of the ABC and SBS 29 Appendix C: The changing digital environment 33 1 FOREWORD The ABC and SBS are two of Australias most important public institutions. Their radio, television and online services entertain, educate and inform millions of Australians every day; they are among the most trusted and beloved organisations in the nation. For over 75 years, national broadcasting has provided Australians with an important community space, or ‘virtual village square’, which is an essential component of our democracy. The Australian Government is committed to ensuring that this successful history translates into an equally successful future. To move confidently into the future, the ABC and SBS must have a clear vision and direction that is supported by creative and responsible public policy and the provision of adequate funds. A clear vision for the future of our national broadcasters is perhaps more important today than ever before. New digital technologies are radically changing the fundamentals of broadcasting and media, and the ABC and SBS must face the challenges and opportunities these changes present. The future of our national broadcasters formed an important part of the discussions at the Australia 2020 Summit, held in Canberra in April 2008. This discussion paper seeks to extend that conversation to the wider A