ABC launches National Forum post Bondi terrorist attack

ABC News will launch ABC National Forum in March 2026, a new live discussion program designed to bring Australians together to debate issues of national significance.

The forum will convene ordinary citizens, community leaders, experts and policymakers for moderated conversations on topical issues, with participation from a live studio audience.

First forum to focus on Jewish Australian experiences

The inaugural ABC National Forum will centre on the lives and experiences of Jewish Australians, including issues arising from the Bondi terrorist attack. The discussion is intended to facilitate a wide-ranging and constructive national conversation.

Broadcast live from Sydney, the forum will be moderated by David Speers, ABC National Political Lead and host of Insiders.

“The ABC National Forum will provide a space for Australians to come together to share their knowledge and experiences, hear from others and better understand each other,” Speers said.

Public broadcaster commitment to national conversation

Hugh Marks, managing director of the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, said the initiative reflects the ABC’s role as a national connector.

“The ABC National Forum reflects the ABC’s commitment to bringing Australians together,” Marks said. “That responsibility is at the core of our role as the national public broadcaster.”

“We’re proud to continue investing in content and services that serve and connect our community,” he said.

Justin Stevens, director of news at the ABC, said the program represents an evolution of the broadcaster’s role as a modern town square.

“The ABC has to continually innovate in the space of the town square, and this is an important initiative to bring together voices of Australians from all corners of our community in a constructive way,” Stevens said.

“Listening to one another is essential to strengthening social harmony and fostering a more cohesive nation,” he added.

The airdate and viewing details for the first ABC National Forum will be announced in the coming weeks.

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