What is the ABC in Australia?
The ABC, or Australian Broadcasting Corporation, is Australia's national public broadcaster. Founded in 1932, it runs television channels, radio stations, news services and the ABC iview streaming service, funded by the federal government.
The ABC began as the Australian Broadcasting Commission, a radio network. It started television broadcasts in 1956 and became a corporation in 1983.
The ABC is known for its news and current affairs programs, children's shows, drama, comedy and documentaries. Its children's programs, such as Play School and Bluey, are especially popular.
Radio and digital
The ABC runs many radio networks, including Radio National, ABC Classic, local radio stations across Australia and Triple J, a youth music station.
It is free of advertising on its main services and is required by law to be independent and impartial. Its emergency broadcasting during bushfires and floods is highly valued in regional areas.
The ABC is often nicknamed Aunty. It has been the subject of debate over its funding, independence and political balance, but surveys regularly show it is one of Australia's most trusted media organizations.