The ABC has announced it has appointed an “external, independent expert advisor” to look into claims made by former managing director Michelle Guthrie.
Just days before she was given the boot, Guthrie sent a letter to the ABC board asking they investigate a number of confidential claims.
Now, the board has brought on an expert to look into the claims.
The broadcaster confirmed the move in a statement published online this morning which said: “This Board has always acted in the best interests of the ABC, has fully debated any issues presented to it and ensured that editorial independence has been maintained.
“We are united in defending the independence of the Corporation. We have done our job thoughtfully and with due regard to board process.”
The statement added: “To clarify various media reports, the Board received a letter from the former Managing Director late on Friday 21 September 2018.
“In that letter, Ms Guthrie responded to several issues that the Board raised with her. In addition, the former Managing Director raised other matters that she requested the Board investigate on a confidential basis.”
In response to these claims, the ABC has said an “investigation is underway” and the board had made the decision to appoint an advisor on 23 September, the day before Guthrie was fired.
“The Board resolved on Sunday 23 September 2018 to appoint an external, independent expert advisor to investigate these matters.
“That investigation is underway, and it is not appropriate for the Board or the ABC to make any further comment pending its completion.”
It finished: “The Board is focused on supporting the Acting Managing Director David Anderson, his leadership team and all employees in fulfilling the ABC’s Charter remit and serving the community.”
