Australia’s national broadcaster, the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), has released an internal review that uncovers “systemic” racism within its organization. This revelation has led to an apology from the managing director to both current and former employees. The review was initiated last year following high-profile Indigenous anchor Stan Grant’s departure from his anchoring duties, during which he accused the network of failing to publicly support him against racist attacks.
The scrutiny around Grant intensified particularly after his commentary during the coronation of King Charles, where he addressed the devastating effects of colonization on Australia’s First Nations people. The report, titled “Listen Loudly, Act Strongly,” was made public on Tuesday and concluded that systemic racism is indeed present within the ABC, along with instances of racism directed at staff from external sources.
External consultants interviewed 120 ABC employees for the review, and remarkably, only one reported not having personally encountered racism. However, that individual acknowledged awareness of racist incidents within the organization. The report emphasized, “This response overwhelmingly indicates that racism exists within the ABC workplace, and that ABC staff are subjected to racism from external individuals and organizations in connection with their work.”
Interviewees shared experiences of both overt and covert racism, which included racial slurs and derogatory remarks. Many expressed that this discrimination not only affected their personal well-being but also hindered their career advancement, leading to a workplace atmosphere that they felt was not culturally safe. Some staff members felt they were overlooked for opportunities, with the perception that they had been hired merely to meet diversity quotas.
The review contains 15 recommendations aimed at addressing these issues, calling for the ABC to adopt a “proactively anti-racist” stance and to conduct pay audits for Indigenous and minority staff. In response to the findings, ABC Managing Director David Anderson issued a public apology to all affected staff and committed to removing individuals who exhibit racist behavior from the organization.
“For anyone who thinks it is okay to display or practice racist behavior, or who believes they can belittle others based on their identity, we will call you out and remove you from this organization,” Anderson stated. He emphasized the broadcaster’s commitment to fostering a workplace that values respect, adding, “You are not welcome here.”
The ABC, funded by the government, maintains editorial independence in its television, radio, and online programming, tasked with providing information that resonates with Australian audiences. It employs a diverse workforce across various regional and urban offices.
Stan Grant, who previously worked for CNN, resigned from the ABC in August to pursue a position at a university, a role he has since vacated. The findings of this review have sparked significant discussions about racism and workplace culture within the ABC, highlighting the need for meaningful change in how the organization addresses issues of discrimination and inclusivity.
