Hands Off SBS
The Federation of Ethnic Communities’ Councils of Australia (FECCA) strongly rejects calls by Senator Pauline Hanson to dismantle one of Australia’s greatest institutions the Special Broadcasting Service (SBS) and suggestions that multiculturalism has failed in Australia.
SBS was born from Australia’s commitment to inclusion and equal opportunity.
In 1975, multilingual radio stations 2EA in Sydney and 3EA in Melbourne were established to provide information about the then new national health insurance scheme, Medibank, in community languages. The overwhelming success of these services demonstrated the need for a permanent multilingual broadcaster.
Following the landmark Galbally Review of migrant services, SBS was formally established in 1978 by the Fraser Government. SBS was founded on a simple but powerful principle: that every Australian, regardless of language or cultural background, should have access to trusted information and should see themselves reflected in the national story.
FECCA was established shortly afterwards in 1979 to provide multicultural communities with a strong national voice. SBS and FECCA are sister institutions of Australian multiculturalism, SBS giving voice through broadcasting, FECCA through advocacy and representation. Together, we have helped shape a more democratic, inclusive, cohesive and confident Australia.
Today, SBS broadcasts in more than 60 languages and remains one of Australia’s most trusted public institutions. Through SBS and NITV, Australians hear stories that reflect the full diversity of our nation, including the histories, cultures and continuing contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Australia’s multiculturalism has always been about welcoming people from all over the world who have contributed to our nation and become proud Australians. A strong multicultural society and a strong national identity are not competing ideals, they are inseparable.
Calls to defund SBS ignore its history and its continuing importance.
“SBS is not a special interest broadcaster, it is a national institution that strengthens social cohesion, provides trusted news and emergency information, combats misinformation and helps millions of Australians participate fully in our democracy,” stated Chair Peter Doukas OAM.
“At a time when many societies around the world are grappling with division and polarisation, Australia should be proud of what it has achieved. Our diversity is one of our greatest strengths, and institutions such as SBS are central to maintaining the trust, inclusion and shared sense of belonging that underpin our national success,” stated Jill Morgan AM
Senator Hanson’s call for a “monocultural” Australia is not only divisive, but also impossible. Our nation has been shaped by First Nations peoples and by successive waves of migration from around the world. Our diversity is not a threat to our identity; it is one of our greatest strengths.
FECCA will continue to stand alongside SBS and all Australians who believe that diversity, inclusion and a shared commitment to democratic values make our nation stronger.
