MEAA National Media Section resolution, October 3, 2024

MEAA’s National Media Section committee has unanimously passed the following motion:

We stand with Anushri Sood and her ABC colleagues to condemn the intimidation and bullying of journalists.

We are appalled by Opposition Leader Peter Dutton’s behaviour and ABC management’s response.

Following its new commitment to protect staff of colour, the ABC failed to show the leadership and values needed to be a robust defender of truth.

It is a journalist’s right and duty to question how policies are made on issues impacting the Australian public and wider global community.

We support our members’ rights to hold power to account by asking honest and fair questions.

The ABC’s public silence on the intimidation of their journalist, a woman of colour, further perpetuates the racism an internal review issued on the same day highlighted.

This is a watershed moment for the national broadcaster, and Australia’s leaders, to recognise the role diverse media plays in the pursuit of transparency, truth and fairness.