The Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) has announced that it will create a new ombudsman role following recommendations from an independent review of its complaints procedures.
After the independent review of its complaints handling procedures, the ABC has decided to appoint an ombudsman in order to strengthen public trust and confidence.
The creation of the role follows an independent review of the public broadcaster’s complaints processes conducted by the former commonwealth and NSW Ombudsman Professor John McMillan and SBS news director Jim Carroll.
Australian Broadcasting Corporation’s Chair Ita Buttrose stated that the change was essential to maintaining the “strong bond of trust and confidence” the public has in the ABC.
“The ABC has the most extensive and robust complaints handling process of any media organisation in Australia. This is consistent with the high standards Australians know and expect from us,” she said.
“As part of our vital service to the Australian people, the ABC is committed to ensuring complaints handling is fair and responsive to audiences.”
Professor McMillan and Director Carroll explained that the independent review of ABC’s complaints processes showed their intent in ensuring that the complaints process is effective, transparent and respected and not onerous or complicated.
While the new ABC ombudsman will report to and be appointed by the ABC board, the new position will head an expanded editorial complaints unit, with the function of reviewing complaints findings.
The role will supplement the existing two-tier model of in-house complaints handling and external review by the Australian Communications and Media Authority.
Reviewers also recommended extended time-frames for making complaints, greater consultation with complainants, more accessible systems, improved transparency and review options and improved employee training.
The ABC says the approach supports editorial independence and is consistent with other public media organisations such as the BBC, CBC and SBS.
With AAP