Providing definitions of opinion, factual and analytic content and guidance on distinguishing between them;
Providing commissioning advice for those managing same;
Answering the question of when it is appropriate for ABC staff to put personal opinions into the public sphere and when it is not.
ABC staff working on news and current affairs content (whether in News or other divisions).
ABC staff working on other factual content on radio, television and online.
ABC staff designated as ‘specialists’ – a category including content specialists such as those employed by Radio National, and presenters and reporters experienced in specialist rounds, including politics and current affairs.
Any ABC staff invited to participate in panel discussion programs or to write personal columns, for either ABC or external platforms.
Managers of programs or websites commissioning opinion and analytic content, whether from ABC employees or external contributors.
An experienced political reporter describing a development as ‘surprising’, based on years of observing parliamentary process.
An experienced sports commentator questioning a team selection or proposed changes to the rules of a code.
A health reporter expressing some scepticism at the claimed results of a clinical trial.
The presenter/reporter/author possesses special knowledge, skill, training, or experience, or longstanding professional engagement with the same or similar subject matter.
It is clearly based around demonstrable facts and evidence.
It is clearly intended to assist with understanding an issue rather than debating it, or prosecuting one particular side of a case.
The presenter/reporter/author has actively sought and included an appropriate range of relevant content, not just that which might support one particular conclusion. Analysis can, however, include observations justified by the weight of evidence.
The language is more descriptive than judgemental and the tone is explanatory and reasoned. It should indicate awareness of complexity, rather than instructing with an air of certainty.
Is the topic under discussion particularly contentious?
Is it an issue which fits naturally within my program brief?
Would a comment on this topic at this time materially affect my ability to do my job effectively?