ABC journalists launch historic 24-hour strike over pay and job security

Journalists at Australia's national broadcaster, ABC, will stage a 24-hour strike for the first time in years. The walkout begins on Wednesday at 11am local time, following a vote where 90% of media-union members rejected a pay deal. Concerns over below-inflation wage rises and job insecurity have driven the action.

Over 4,400 people work at the ABC, with around 2,000 in its news division—the largest section of the organisation. The strike, backed by 60% of all staff, will disrupt live television and radio broadcasts. Non-media employees also joined the protest, having rejected the same deal in 2023.

ABC management's latest offer included no guarantees against AI replacing jobs and limited job security. The Media, Entertainment and Arts Alliance (MEAA) chief, Erin Madeley, warned that experienced staff were being stretched thin. Workers cited stagnant pay and unstable conditions as key reasons for the industrial action.

The strike marks a rare moment of collective action among ABC journalists. With live programming set to be affected, the broadcaster faces pressure to address pay and job security concerns. The outcome could shape future negotiations for one of Australia's most-visited media platforms.