Australian public broadcasters ABC and SBS will be called to testify at a royal commission into antisemitism following complaints about their Middle East coverage. Counsel assisting the commission noted criticisms regarding accuracy, impartiality, and balance in their reporting.
The royal commission's scrutiny of public broadcasters highlights concerns about media impartiality and its potential impact on social cohesion and the spread of antisemitism, particularly in the context of international conflicts.
Representatives from Australia's public broadcasters, ABC and SBS, are scheduled to appear before the royal commission investigating antisemitism and social cohesion. This follows submissions to the inquiry that were highly critical of their reporting on the Middle East conflict, citing concerns about accuracy, impartiality, and balance.
Counsel assisting the commission, Richard Lancaster SC, stated that the broadcasters hold a significant and trusted position and are expected to adhere to high standards of reporting. He noted that complaints suggest their coverage has been inaccurate or unbalanced in story selection, focus, and reportage.
The special envoy to combat antisemitism, Jillian Segal, will also provide testimony. Witnesses from the ABC and SBS themselves will be called to explain their approach to reporting on the conflict.
Both broadcasters have confirmed their engagement with the commission. An SBS spokesperson stated they are providing written submissions, while an ABC spokesperson indicated they are engaging constructively. The ABC, through its managing director Hugh Marks and chair Kim Williams, has previously defended its coverage against accusations of bias and contributing to antisemitism, asserting they stand by their reporting.
Commissioner Virginia Bell will hear evidence over the next two weeks concerning the dissemination of antisemitic content online and in traditional media. Inquiries into social media platforms revealed varying levels of cooperation, with some engaging meaningfully and others being unresponsive or openly hostile.