AustraliaOwnership & classification
Founded: 1932
Ownership
The Australian Broadcasting Corporation is Australia's national public-service broadcaster, established as the Australian Broadcasting Commission on 1 July 1932 by federal legislation (renamed a Corporation in 1983). It is a publicly owned statutory body wholly owned by the Australian government, run by a government-appointed board of directors, and operates under the Australian Broadcasting Corporation Act 1983, which mandates its editorial independence.
Funding
The ABC is funded almost entirely by direct triennial grants from the federal government drawn from general taxation; an early household licence fee was abolished in 1948 as impractical for Australia's small, dispersed population. It earns minor additional revenue through its commercial arm (ABC Commercial) but carries no paid advertising on its main news services.
Affiliation & stance
Because it is state-owned and taxpayer-funded yet bound by statute to be politically independent and accountable, the ABC is a public broadcaster and correctly classified as STATE. Its remit requires impartial news; it is not controlled by any party despite periodic government funding disputes.
Editorial lean
- Our estimate
- Center
- Measured from coverage
- Centerbased on 1123
83/100
Factual
78/100
Objective
1514
Articles
1495
reports
Factual: How accurately its articles report the facts, judged against primary sources and the cross-outlet consensus. Only articles that cite their sources are counted.
Objective: How neutral the writing is — whether reporting keeps the writer’s own preferences and opinions out of the article.
Recent coverage
Dutch F1 Grand Prix live: Verstappen crashes out; Piastri makes a stunning move on the restart
The article provides updates from the Dutch F1 Grand Prix, focusing on race developments and driver strategies. Oscar Piastri made a notable overtake on George Russell during the restart, despite being on harder tires. Meanwhile, Lando Norris faced challenges after a poor pit stop, leading to him falling behind Piastri. The race saw significant changes due to an opening-lap crash involving Max Verstappen, which affected tire strategies and positioning. Kimi Antonelli performed strongly, overtaking Norris early in the race. The article highlights strategic decisions and performance differences among drivers, particularly around tire compounds and race tactics.
'We have let down our partners and families': Suspended Sydney Swans players break silence
Five Sydney Swans Australian Football League (AFL) players, Riley Bice, Nick Blakey, Isaac Heeney, James Jordon, and Chad Warner, have been suspended for the rest of the season due to a breach of the club's standards. The suspension follows an ongoing sexual assault investigation involving an incident at the Pullman Hotel in East Melbourne. The players issued a joint statement expressing regret for letting down their partners, families, teammates, and the broader community, while accepting the club's sanctions. The Sydney Swans' chairman, Andrew Pridham, apologized to fans and corporate partners but did not address the women allegedly involved in the incident, stating the matter was under police investigation. The club emphasized that the sanctions were based on the players' actions, such as staying out late and bringing women back to the hotel, and were separate from any potential legal charges.
‘Unbelievable’: One Nation immigration policy in chaos as MP concedes target ‘not too different’ from Labor’s
One Nation, an Australian political party, faces internal criticism over its immigration policy after MP David Farley suggested the party's proposed migration numbers are not significantly different from those of the current Albanese government. Farley attempted to redefine 'net overseas migration' (NOM), stating that while the raw number might be similar to the government's, the focus should be on where migrants are needed, primarily in rural areas for sectors like agriculture, engineering, and mining rather than major cities. He explained that One Nation's target of 130,000 annual net overseas migrants does not include additional migrant categories such as the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) program and aged care nurses, which could add at least 100,000 more migrants annually. This clarification has led to accusations from both the opposition and the ruling party that One Nation lacks consistency and clarity on a central policy issue.
Teen hospitalised on NSW Central Coast after alleged stabbing
A 15-year-old boy was hospitalized in critical but stable condition after being allegedly stabbed at Painters Lane, Terrigal, on the NSW Central Coast. Emergency services responded to the incident around 9:45pm, treating the teenager for a single stab wound to the left side before transporting him to Gosford Hospital. Police from the Brisbane Water Police District established a crime scene and interviewed several teenagers, though no arrests have been made. Detectives are investigating potential relationships between the involved groups and the circumstances leading to the altercation. Authorities have issued a warning about youth carrying knives and are appealing for witnesses or surveillance footage.
First mammal death from bird flu confirmed, a dreaded advance of killer virus
On August 23, 2026, authorities confirmed the first known death of a mammal caused by the bird flu virus in Australia, marking a concerning development in the virus's spread. A long-nosed fur seal found dead in South Australia tested positive for the H5 strain of the virus, making it the first documented case of bird flu transmission to a mammal on the mainland. This follows earlier outbreaks in migratory birds across multiple states and a significant die-off of penguin populations on King Island. Scientists had long feared such a crossover, as the virus previously devastated seal pup populations on the subantarctic Heard Island and McDonald Islands during the previous breeding season. The discovery raises concerns about the potential for the virus to affect broader wildlife and possibly humans.
Australia’s had three two-day Tests in nine months. It’s damaging to cricket
The article discusses the recent two-day Test match between Australia and Bangladesh in Mackay, highlighting concerns over the increasing frequency of short-format Test matches in Australia. The match ended quickly with Australia clinching victory, but the format has raised questions about its impact on traditional Test cricket. The piece notes that Australia has hosted three two-day Tests in nine months, which contrasts with historical norms where such matches were rare. While Australian captain Pat Cummins praised the team's performance, he acknowledged issues with the batting lineup and questioned whether the team is reaching its full potential. The article suggests that the rapid pace of these matches may be diminishing the spectator experience, with fans in Mackay reportedly cheering for not-out decisions to prolong play.
Trump hits back at Canada after retaliatory tariffs announced
US President Donald Trump responded to Canada's announcement of retaliatory tariffs by accusing Canada of wanting the benefits of U.S. membership without the responsibilities. The tariffs, imposed by Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, target U.S. steel and dairy products and are part of a broader trade dispute. Trump criticized Canada for imposing heavy tariffs on American farmers over the years. The retaliatory measures come after a failed trade negotiation, escalating tensions between the two nations. The tariffs affect various Canadian exports, potentially harming industries like wine, furniture, and dairy. Canadian leaders, including Ontario Premier Doug Ford, support the retaliatory action, while emphasizing the need to protect domestic industries from U.S. trade policies.
Starc strikes early again as Australian tighten grip on Mackay Test
In the second Test between Australia and Bangladesh in Mackay, Australia has taken control of the match after a strong performance by their bowling attack. Mitchell Starc made an immediate impact in Bangladesh's second innings, claiming two crucial early wickets, including a hat-trick attempt, which significantly weakened the opposition's position. Pat Cummins also contributed by taking a wicket, further tightening Australia's grip on the game. Earlier in the day, Bangladesh's Shoriful Islam achieved a remarkable feat by taking seven wickets in an innings, becoming the first Bangladeshi bowler to do so in a Test match on Australian soil. This came after Bangladesh secured their first-ever Test victory on Australian grounds in the previous match in Darwin. Cameron Green's innings for Australia ended abruptly when he was dismissed by Shoriful Islam, who later celebrated his historic achievement.
Selwyn calls early end to 'challenging' ski season
Selwyn Snow Resort in New South Wales has ended its winter season early due to poor snow conditions caused by unseasonably warm weather and rainfall. The resort's general manager described the season as one of the most challenging in recent years, noting that despite efforts to create artificial snow, the lack of natural snowfall made it impossible to continue operations. Other resorts such as Mt Baw Baw in Victoria have also announced early closures. While some resorts like Perisher and Thredbo remain open, they are experiencing significantly less snow compared to previous years. Forecasted rain may further impact snow cover unless cooler temperatures follow.
Bristol City striker's stunning backheel goal in England goes viral
In a Championship match between Bristol City and Birmingham City, striker Dom Ballard scored an impressive backheel goal in the 85th minute, which has since gone viral on social media. The goal, described as a 'stunning' backheel volley, came after a cross from Rio Cardines and sent the ball into the top corner, giving Bristol City the lead. Despite this moment of brilliance, Birmingham City equalized through a penalty, resulting in a draw. Ballard expressed disappointment with the outcome, stating he believed Bristol City had been the better team. The goal sparked online discussions, with some suggesting it could be contender for the Puskás Award, recognizing the best goal of the season.
NT government pursues Fair Work action over firefighters, corrections dispute
The Northern Territory (NT) government has submitted two applications to the Fair Work Commission (FWC) regarding disputes with firefighters and correctional officers, potentially undermining its public sector wage policy of a maximum 3% annual increase. The United Workers Union Northern Territory (UWU NT) argues the government is avoiding genuine negotiations and pursuing legal avenues instead. Commissioner for Public Employment Nicole Hurwood defends the applications, stating the union has rejected multiple negotiated offers. Industrial relations expert Dr. Alexis Vassiley notes that such declarations are uncommon and could result in pay increases exceeding the government’s proposed limit. Multiple public sector groups, including healthcare workers and utility employees, are involved in ongoing negotiations, with some unions criticizing the pay offers as insufficient.
Grafton 12yo takes campaign to politicians to fix beloved skate park
A 12-year-old skater named Haylee Blair from Grafton, Australia, has taken initiative to address the deteriorating condition of her local skate park. The park, originally built in 1998 with subsequent expansions in 2001 and 2011, is now described as unsafe due to cracks, holes, and debris, making it unsuitable for skateboarding. Haylee, who hosts a community radio show, raised awareness through various platforms including a local Rotary Club and meetings with her mayor and state representative. Her efforts led to a unanimous council decision to pursue necessary maintenance, though funding remains a challenge. Councillor Cristie Yager emphasized the importance of restoring the park to a safe and functional state, while acknowledging financial constraints. Haylee hopes for future improvements such as a smoother surface, a pump track for younger children, and added amenities like shade and security cameras.
‘Wait here’: Father leaves young son alone on Mount Fuji ... for hours
A father in Japan was reprimanded by police after leaving his seven-year-old son alone on Mount Fuji for several hours during a hike. The incident occurred on Thursday morning when the boy was found sitting on a bench 2000 meters up the mountain in fog and rain, with only a soft drink and a snack. According to reports, the father had instructed his son to 'wait here' while he continued hiking with his older son. Police were called after staff at a mountain hut noticed the boy unattended and contacted his father, who had reached the eighth station. The boy was handed over to him upon his return. The father apologized, calling his actions a 'rash decision,' and admitted the behavior was careless. The family had been following a standard hiking route, and the incident highlights concerns about parental responsibility during outdoor activities.