The ABC’s new managing director is already looking to change things up at the government-funded broadcaster, placing a stronger focus on its internet-based service, iView.
The Australian reported that the ABC is set to double its output for digital TV as part of its new programming schedule for 2017, with more than 200 hours of content made for iView.
The move comes after managing director Michelle Guthrie last week signalled the need for the ABC to accelerate its shift to online platforms, according to The Australian.
“The ABC cannot be frozen in time, no matter how much some stakeholders would like it to be,” she said.
“Our commitment to quality cannot be measured through a line-by-line defence of every program.
“Programs and program schedules can and will change.”
Cultural diversity and Aussie content will be another priority for the ABC’s programming schedule for next year.
According to The Australian, ABC director of television Richard Finlayson has commissioned 20 new local shows, including The Warriors, a drama about two young indigenous footballers who make it in the AFL.
The ABC will also broadcast a string of programs tackling social issues, with Aussie Olympic gold medallist Ian Thorpe to host Bullied, a documentary on bullying among children, while novelist and author Tara Moss will explore cyber-bullying using her own experience in Cyberhate.
Among the 16 shows returning to the ABC in 2017 are Glitch (which will be co-produced by Netflix), Shaun Micallef’s Mad As Hell, Cleverman and The Weekly with Charlie Pickering.
The ABC’s science program, Catalyst, will also return next year despite being found to have breached editorial standards twice.
