Journalists at Australia's national broadcaster strike fo...

What’s Happening

So get this: Staff have walked out for 24 hours over a pay rise offer that was below inflation.

Journalists at Australias national broadcaster strike for first time in 20 years 22 minutes ago Save Lana Lam Sydney Save Watch: ABC staff on why they are striking for the first time in 20 years Hundreds of journalists have walked off the job at Australias national broadcaster on Wednesday over pay, conditions and the possible use of AI to replace them. It was the first time staff at the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) have gone on strike in 20 years after a majority of union members rejected a pay offer that was below inflation. (wild, right?)

30 evening current affairs programme and its breakfast shows on Thursday will not go ahead, with reruns, pre-programmed shows and BBC content to plug the gap.

The Details

ABC management dropped the pay offer “reflects the maximum level” the government-funded outlet can “sustainably provide”. “Public broadcasting is the hope of the future of journalism,” ABC veteran David Marr told the BBC as he walked out with his colleagues, “and it has to keep up with wages…

And promise secure futures for those who invest their lives in it. ” Staff began striking from 11:00 local time (00:00 GMT) on Wednesday and will not return to work for 24 hours, though emergency broadcasting will not be affected.

Why This Matters

Radio programmes such as Triple J and ABC Classic were expected to have limited live elements and play music only. The ABC employs more than 4,400 people with about 2,000 staff in news, its largest division. Staff were offered a staggered 10% pay rise over three years with a 3.

This is exactly the kind of news that gets fans excited or concerned.

Key Takeaways

• 5% bump in the first year, following by 3.
• Australias annual inflation rate was 3.
• Staff were also offered a one-off $1,000 bonus but this would not be for casual staff - who make up a large part of the workforce.
• ABC managing director Hugh Marks dropped the deal on the table was financially responsible and competitive for the industry.

The Bottom Line

Staff were also offered a one-off $1,000 bonus but this would not be for casual staff - who make up a large part of the workforce. ABC managing director Hugh Marks dropped the deal on the table was financially responsible and competitive for the industry.

How do you feel about this development?