What's going on with ABC childrens' tv these days? Why has it gone almost all American? Some days, childrens' tv is 90% American shows, non-stop American accents.. I know some is Canadian, but you've still moved totally to North America. Where is the Australian content? Surely this is against the Charter? This is disgusting. Who does the programming? The US embassy? It looks very suspicious to have such a policy of saturation. Is somebody on a commission? You seem to be running down local content and talent in a militant fashion. We would prefer a more varied content with more Australian and international flavour. Where's the initiative?. Fly TV could produce good cheap shows and even the commercial channels have some good local content in the kids timezone. Somebody isn't trying.

Jenny Smith.

-- Anonymous, July 16, 2003

Answers

I totally agree! Aussie children already sound like americans and they are clearly not acquiring these accents from their parents. More local content is needed.

-- Anonymous, August 01, 2003

Concerned parents should write/email to the person charged with the responsibility of children's programming on the ABC. Let them know that the ABC should be providing Australian childrens programmes (especially in the main time slots) with Aussie voices and stories. Any foriegn programmes should be kept to a minimum (to fill in the gaps if you like).

Additionally parents should talk with their children's schools and education departments - ask them to also lobby the ABC on this matter. American children's programming on our TV will undermine and counter the work of our educators, especially in regard to correct pronunciation and spelling. Again school teachers and principles should be encouraged by parents to lobby relevant MPs for increased funding so as the ABC can provide more quality childrens programming.

Does anyone know the name and contact details the ABC Children's Programmer?

-- Anonymous, August 03, 2003

now that the ABC has had their budget cut, there will probably be more American programs, as it is cheaper to buy a program than to make one

-- Anonymous, August 08, 2003