Labor won’t scrap ABC and SBS ombudsmen in favour of external body as suggested by antisemitism envoy

The Albanese government has decided against implementing a suggestion by antisemitism envoy Jillian Segal to eliminate the existing ombudsmen for the ABC and SBS, opting instead to retain their roles. Segal had proposed the creation of an external independent ombudsman to oversee the broadcasters' coverage of the Gaza conflict and ensure adherence to accuracy and impartiality standards. However, government sources have pointed out that a media regulator already exists, making the proposed change unnecessary. Segal's updated priorities, released recently, included this recommendation among others.