SBS has faced viewer backlash after deciding not to join a boycott of next year's Eurovision song contest if Israel is allowed to compete. The broadcaster confirmed it received audience feedback following media reports about its intention to participate.
At Senate estimates, Greens senator Mehreen Faruqi criticised the decision, asking if Australia would withdraw or provide cover for Israel. Acting managing director Jane Palfreyman said it was crucial in these 'troubling times' to be impartial and not state a position for or against.
Faruqi also raised concerns about SBS's editorial response to the Albanese government's recognition of Palestine. Reports claimed staff were 'unable to use the word Palestine', but director of news Mandi Wicks clarified that SBS's guidance is to refer to 'Occupied Palestinian Territories, which Australia recognises as the State of Palestine'.
The ABC's guidance allows use of Palestine when referring to geography, history, community and the intended state, while The Guardian advises using Palestine for the occupied West Bank and Gaza but avoiding 'Palestinian territories'.
