Less capacity to generate independent, vigorous news and information programming, either locally or from a unique network of Australian correspondents around the world. There have been calls for the ABC to quarantine certain services - especially the regional radio networks. The ABC is aware of the tremendous value attached to its regional services. However, it must be understood that so much of what we provide to audiences in regional Australia already depends on networking. At certain parts of the day, the local radio stations take regionally networked programs and state-networked programs made especially for regional radio.
Regional audiences demand access to the same services enjoyed by people in the capital cities.
They have as much right to debate, discussion, exposure to the Arts and music. Services like Radio National, Triple J and Classic FM, and ABC Television, connecting regional Australia to the rest of the country and the world. Providing media diversity, where there is none. Already regional Australia is affected to an extent by the recently announced cuts to Triple J services. So, you see - if you cut Triple J, young people in regional Australia are affected.