Opposition Leader Peter Dutton has hinted at potential cuts to ABC funding, arguing the broadcaster’s services in major cities are not adequately supporting Australians in regional and outer metropolitan areas.
In an exclusive interview with Sky News, Dutton said the ABC could play a bigger role in regional communities but questioned the need for its strong presence in Sydney and Melbourne. While he did not commit to specific cuts, he indicated funding should be directed toward “rewarding excellence” and eliminating waste.
Dutton’s comments come as the Coalition builds its policy platform in response to Australia’s soaring national debt, projected to exceed $1 trillion. He has also flagged broader public service reductions, including cuts to back-office jobs in the health and education departments and potential changes to National Disability Insurance Scheme funding.
The Opposition Leader has already pledged to scrap Labor’s $20 billion Rewiring the Nation Fund, the $10 billion Housing Australia Future Fund, and $16 billion in production tax credits for minerals and green hydrogen. He has also suggested reversing the hiring of 41,000 public servants, which he claims could save $7 billion annually.
With the federal election set for May 3, the debate over public sector spending and national debt has become a key battleground, as both major parties seek to balance fiscal responsibility with essential services.
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