Survey results show ABC just as trusted in the Pacific as Australia
The ABC was found to be the preferred international broadcaster in almost every region.
New research has shown that the ABC is just as trusted across the Pacific as it is in Australia, with nearly 80% of survey respondents trusting the broadcaster.
The research surveyed people about usage patterns relating to ABC Australia, ABC Radio Australia, the broadcaster's digital and social media channels, broader media consumption, and attitudes to ABC programs and Australia more generally.
The research was conducted last year across the key Pacific markets of Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, and Vanuatu. It was the second time the ABC had commissioned a survey in the Pacific, with 2021 being the first time the data was collected. The survey was conducted by an independent research agency with expertise in the region.
When comparing the ABC to international broadcasters such as the BBC, CNN, and national broadcasters from France, Japan, New Zealand, and China, the ABC was found to be the preferred international broadcaster in almost every region. The exception was Fiji, where Al Jazeera was most preferred.
Throughout each market, between 36% and 70% of those surveyed had listened to, watched or used ABC online in the prior three months.
Whilst traditional media consumption is still strong, household ownership of radios and televisions is generally in decline in the region. Newspapers are also being increasingly read online.
The aim of the ongoing research is to ensure that the ABC’s investments in the Pacific are effective, and that its content and services are meeting audience needs.
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The latest round of research was conducted before editorial staff at the ABC passed two votes of no confidence against managing director David Anderson, and other senior managers.
The votes were cast in light of the broadcaster’s handling of complaints.
Staff have also called for the broadcaster's head of content, Chris Oliver-Taylor, to step down due to his decision to dismiss broadcaster Antoinette Lattouf.
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Top Image: ABC sports presenters Sam Wykes, Tinirau Arona and Anna-Liza Mopio-Jane in Honiara
