The ABC Ombudsman, Fiona Cameron, today released her first public report outlining complaint statistics and a new complaint process.
"At the core of the establishment of the Ombudsman's Office is greater transparency, accountability and visibility and this report endeavours to deliver on all three," Ms Cameron said.
"The ABC strives to be adventurous, brave and creative and such principles will solicit strong reactions. Complaints are very much part of this process and are welcomed and encouraged." she said.
Over the three-year period up until the end of 2022, total complaints averaged 23,767. The majority (85%) relate to general complaints about matters of personal taste and preference and the balance (15%) relate to specific ABC content which concerns the ABC's editorial standard's.
70% of content complaints fell into the categories of balance (5%), bias (37%) and factual inaccuracy (28%).
The most complained about platform was News Online given its reach and the extent to which it is shared across social networks. The 7pm News, 7.30, News Breakfast and Q+A rounded out the top five complained about programs.
The report sets out changes to the ABC's complaint processes headlined by the appointment of an Ombudsman reporting to the Board and the establishment of an internal review mechanisms where complainants who remain unsatisfied with a response from the ABC may seek an Ombudsman review.
The report can be found here.
