I have two central concerns about this situation. The first is that our diminishing reward for freelancers and job opportunity in Australia is, inevitably, going to mean that we are missing a wealth of fresh talent. Secondly, we are being pressed, more and more, not to take pains. A bunch of glib words will serve. Instant E-language replaces thoughtful writing.
Writing is fundamental.
But we must not expect Australian writers to work for next to nothing. Unless great sponsors of writing, such as the ABC, rediscover their duty, I despair for the future of good writing in Australia. We, the ABC, need more funds. We need that all right. But we also need much more to get programs and talent moving again.