IPA Calls for Privatisation of ABC Over Mining Coverage

The IPA is calling for the privatization of the ABC after claims of “media bias” in ABC’s reporting of renewable energy and non-renewables.

The Institute of Public Affairs released a report this week saying that it has uncovered “media bias” in ABC’s reporting on mining, coal seam gas and renewable energy.

In this regard, IPA is calling for the privatization of ABC as soon as possible.

A lot of people thought this was a cruel joke. But some observers say it is not a joke when IPA’s move is scrutinized.

IPA’s Corporate Agenda

IPA is a private right-wing think tank which is heavily supported by media moguls such as Rupert Murdoch and Gina Rineheart. Many people believe that these two individuals would benefit more if ABC is privatized because that will make another media company sympathetic to mining, and so forth.

This move of IPA was a reaction to the recently concluded report done by ABC on energy issues. IPA’s response to the issues raised in the report “is so biased it amounts to campaigning by the taxpayer.”

Independent observers believe that Australian citizens are now aware of the radical conservative agenda of IPA is now being exposed right before the people’s eyes.

The Institute of Public Affairs has an incredible wish list of 75 conservative items that have been readily adapted by the Prime Minister who compared the work of John Roskam, IPA Executive Director to that of Jesus and his 12 disciples.

Its allegation of “media bias” is ill-intentioned and unfounded, according to some independent observers. These observers believe that the real agenda of this group is not too difficult to see. They say that privatizing ABC will frustrate Australian citizens’ efforts to choose renewable energy industry products, such as solar energy and wind power, over fossil fuel hungry power plants.

Ironically, the Institute of Public Affairs considers itself as Australia’s “voice of freedom.” Others have aptly contested this by saying: “Like Beauty, perhaps freedom is in the eye of the beholder.”

The Institute of Public Affairs is “Australia’s wealthiest private think tank, supported by members including coal barons, media moguls and business executives who will stop at nothing to make Australia serve their interests,” stated GetUp!, a political movement for a more progressive Australia.

GetUp! is supporting ABC in this fight, and has reiterated that this media outlet has been cleared by other reviews of any bias and said that they will do everything it takes to prevent ABC from being privatized.

ABC is regarded many Australians as an unbiased and honest media source. This media group states their corporate responsibility in this way: “The ABC is committed to Corporate Responsibility and aims to deliver content with integrity, diligence and transparency and to act in the interests of citizens.

“Delivering products and services that satisfy the needs and expectations of audience, and that meet the ABC’s editorial standards, is the essence of the ABC existence.” Perhaps, in the pursuance of these ideals, ABC has stepped on the foot of IPA and that hurts.

The Author

Motivated and dynamic journalist with a strong interest in sustainable solar powered technology. My work in journalism and new media has provided me with a medium to produce content concerning emerging renewable energy.