The managing director of the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, Hugh Marks, has issued a robust defence of two of the broadcaster's leading journalists following significant public criticism of their comments related to the Bondi Beach terrorist attack.
Defending Editorial Judgement
In a statement released on Monday, Marks first stressed the gravity of the December 14 massacre, which he described as 'a shocking and traumatic event for Australia and especially for the Jewish community'. He extended the ABC's deepest sympathy to those impacted. The attack, which claimed 15 lives during a Hanukkah celebration, is formally being treated as a terrorist incident inspired by ISIS ideology.
The director specifically addressed the backlash against global affairs editor Laura Tingle. Her comments were made on the December 16 episode of the ABC's Politics Now podcast, hosted by Patricia Karvelas. When questioned on whether the Bondi massacre was religiously motivated, Tingle stated: 'It's got nothing to do with religion' and added, 'Their actions are not based on their religion.'
These remarks sparked online fury, with critics accusing Tingle of downplaying the role of extremist ideology. This was particularly acute given authorities confirmed the alleged shooters, Sajid and Naveed Akram, were inspired by Islamic State and had targeted a Jewish celebration.
Rejecting 'Unfounded' Criticism
Marks firmly rejected these claims. 'Her analysis and the program in no way sought to minimise the terrorist nature of these horrific events, or the needs for Australia to combat antisemitism, or the rights of Jewish people to feel safe,' he asserted. He confirmed the ABC had reviewed the podcast episode and found the criticism to be 'unfounded'.
Marks also defended Sarah Ferguson, the host of the flagship 7.30 programme, following complaints about her December 17 interview with former treasurer Josh Frydenberg. Frydenberg, one of Australia's most prominent Jewish political figures, had earlier accused Prime Minister Anthony Albanese of bearing responsibility for the attack while visiting a vigil at Bondi Beach Pavilion.
During the interview, Ferguson challenged him, asking if his comments were connected to a potential political comeback. It is understood Frydenberg is considering a return to politics following the terror attack. 'How do we not see this through a political lens – I mean, the case that you're making, a personal case against the prime minister?' Ferguson asked.
Frydenberg responded with force, stating: 'I'm deeply offended by what you just said. I'm deeply offended. That is an insult to say that there is any political motivation in this.' He went on to detail his personal experience of the security required for his family, describing armed guards at his children's school and Jewish childcare centres.
A 'Legitimate' Line of Questioning
Dismissing the criticism of Ferguson's approach, Marks stated: 'Sarah's interview included a question on his potential return to politics which was a legitimate question for a journalist to put to him.' He reiterated that an internal ABC review had also found these complaints to be baseless.
Concluding his statement, Marks addressed the broader challenges facing journalists who cover terrorism and its aftermath. 'Questions about the role of the media, including the central role of the ABC, in sustaining a cohesive and inclusive society in a responsible manner are vitally important,' he said. 'These are questions we ask of ourselves on a daily basis.' The ABC maintains its position that the criticisms of both journalists are without foundation.
