Today's Australian suggests the ABC is about to go some massive cuts in local production, and speculation is that state based sport will be among the casualties.
CUTS to ABC television this week will result in major job losses and decimate its once rich arts and entertainment slate, a key plank of the ABC charter.
The corporation has refused to confirm whether local sport, which includes state football and women's basketball, is among the victims of the cutbacks to local production in the states and territories. It also refused to respond directly to staff fears that up to 100 jobs could be lost.
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Despite its shortcomings, the ABC broadcast is important because it's free-to-air & has extensive coverage throughout Victoria. The take-up rate for Foxtel is only 30% so it means the telecasts would reach far fewer people & so the attractiveness to sponsors may not be as great. Having said that, it may be more professional on Foxtel & more people may take up subscriptions if there is 5 live AFL games & a dedicated footy channel, like previously.