ABC Friends has joined Democracy Counts, a growing alliance of Australian organisations who care about the way democracy functions in Australia.

Why we’ve signed up

Our mission for a fearless, independent ABC that is free for all Australians doesn’t exist in isolation. A healthy democracy depends on a robust ‘fourth pillar’ who are not intimidated when seeking truth and holding the powerful to account. Likewise, a healthy democracy also needs informed citizenry, armed with truth free from commercial and political interests.

Democracy Counts shares this vision. The campaign is calling for electoral funding and lobbying reform, greater independence for public service appointments, investment in public interest journalism, stronger civics education, and social media reforms that make online spaces more trustworthy.

Where our work aligns

Public interest journalism sits at the heart of these campaigns. As trust in much of the media continues to decline, public broadcasters like the ABC remain among the most trusted sources of news for Australians. But trust alone won’t guarantee its survival. It requires proper funding, editorial independence, and protection from the political and commercial pressures that continue to erode Australia’s media landscape.

Standing together

By joining Democracy Counts, ABC Friends adds its voice to a broader coalition defending the institutions that keep Australian democracy strong, and a well-funded, independent ABC is part of that vital infrastructure.

We encourage our members and supporters to learn more about the campaign and add their names at democracycounts.org.au.