Australia Network boss concedes programming should improve

ABC International boss Lynley Marshall has defended the role of the Asia-Pacific Australia Network amid rumours it may be cut by the government, but concedes it has been guilty of presenting a “hodgepodge” of programs.

The ABC-managed broadcast has recently been criticised by Foreign Affairs Minister Julie Bishop.

Fairfax reports Marshall said the spread of social media and mobile devices in Asia has vastly extended the potential audience and its critics did not understanding the strategy in promoting Australia in the region.

In a speech to the Australian Institute of International Affairs she said that improving the content took time, and commissioning and producing fresh programs had been held up during a protracted battle for the rights to run Australia Network.

Commercial programs, such as Home and Away, are broadcast alongside ABC News bulletins and football matches but the programming has been panned as dull and repetitive.

She indicated the Foreign Affairs department was positive about a new strategy for July and the ABC was “hopeful and confident” there would be time to demonstrate results.

Julie Bishop’s office had assured the ABC no decision had yet been taken on the future for the Australia Network.