ABC chair Kim Williams delivered a powerful talk on ethical leadership during the 2024 Sir Vincent Fairfax Oration in Sydney last week. Yet the timing of his speech, set against the backdrop of major changes at the ABC, cast a shadow over his message of optimism and inter-generational responsibility.
Williams’ address, hosted by the Cranlana Centre for Ethical Leadership, championed the role of civic institutions like the ABC in sustaining democracy, trust, and cultural identity. However, the broadcaster’s own upheavals — including the non-renewal of contracts for presenters Sarah Macdonald and Simon Marnie — prompted discussion about the challenges of applying these ideals in dynamic and complex organisational environments.
A vision of ethical leadership
Speaking to an audience that included members of the Fairfax and Myer families, Williams described leadership as a long-term, inter-generational responsibility. He emphasised the importance of professional ethics, citing Yale historian Timothy Snyder’s On Tyranny, which warns of the consequences when ethical norms are eroded.
“Professional ethics matter most in moments of exception,” Williams said. “These are the moments that test our principles and define our legacies.”
He called for a commitment to truth, cultural enrichment, and the nurturing of Australia’s civic institutions, positioning the ABC as a vital player in fostering national identity and democratic values. Williams celebrated the ABC’s role in bringing Australian stories to life, highlighting its contributions to journalism, education, and the arts.
Pictured: ABC chair Kim Williams.
A contrast with reality at the ABC
However, the day of Williams’ speech was also the day staff at ABC Radio National learned of sweeping changes. Macdonald, the long-time host of ABC Sydney Mornings, and weekend presenter Simon Marnie were informed their contracts would not be renewed. Chris Bath was announced as the new Drive host, replacing Richard Glover, further underscoring the sense of upheaval.
The news was met with outgoing Media Watch host Paul Barry praising Macdonald as “one of the best things on radio” and former ABC journalist Emma Alberici saying she was “utterly gobsmacked.”
Williams did not address these changes in his speech, moderator Matt Beard encouraged concise, topic-focused questions during the Q&A, and management changes were not raised.
A test of leadership for Australia’s national broadcaster
Williams’ vision for the ABC is ambitious, portraying it as a cornerstone of Australian democracy and culture. He called for greater investment in public broadcasting to combat misinformation, nurture critical thinking, and foster Australian storytelling.
“Australian democracy thrives when supported by institutions that reflect our shared history and aspirations,” he said. “The ABC is one of our most vital institutions, a mirror to our nation and a bridge to our future.”
But as Williams praised the ABC’s role as a unifier and truth-teller, the broadcaster itself faces growing criticism for how it manages its people and resources.
Implications for the media industry
For Australia’s media and marketing industry, Williams’ oration spotlights a larger tension between values and execution. It affirms the critical role of leadership in navigating change while staying true to organisational principles.
The ABC’s recent actions, including the talent shake-up, illustrate the complex challenges of maintaining trust and relevance in an increasingly fragmented media landscape.
Williams is due to speak at the National Press Club in Canberra next week.
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Top image: Kim Williams