Pay TV pressures ALP against Kids’ TV

The ALP is yet to throw its support behind a new kids channel, ABC3. It is believed to have been pressured by the subscription television industry against the idea.

The Howard government has committed to $82m, leading to glowing praise from ABC’s Kim Dalton. “Australian parents know and trust the ABC brand because of the quality and educational value of ABC Children’s TV. We will build on that reputation in providing this dedicated commercial-free children’s channel. It will be available to Australian children of all ages across the country.”

But despite an earlier report by The Age’s Jason Koutsoukis flagging ALP support, even Age colleague Paul Kalina noted, “the ALP is yet to announce whether it supports the proposal, which has been put forward by the ABC and the Australian Children’s Television Association.”

Last week’s timely Press Release by Dalton with the tactfully included line, “The ABC is considering the proposal” is none-too-subtle pressure for the ALP to match the Liberal offer.

Screen Producers Association of Australia executive director Geoff Brown has also said, “We would like to hear from the Australian Labor Party on this issue before the election. The initiative requires bipartisan political support.”

The Australian today suggests that subscription TV has lobbied the ALP against greenlighting ABC3.

Commercial free-to-air networks may also lobby to reduce their commitments to children’s programming.