This petition of certain citizens of Australia draws to the attention of the House and the Senate your petitioners' appreciation of the vital role the ABC plays in the development of Australian culture and in the provision of quality news and information services, including in regional Australia.

Proposed alterations to the ABC charter and cuts to its funding and staff levels will have an extremely adverse effect on the ABC's performance of these roles.

Your petitioners express their grave concern that the Government proposes to break its unequivocal election promise to maintain current levels of ABC funding and proposes to redefine the ABC's role so that it has a narrower focus and is more politically acceptable to the Howard Government.

Your petitioners request that the Senate ensures the current ABC charter, funding and staffing levels are maintained so that the ABC retains its independence and viability as an effective national broadcaster.