The national broadcasters are operating in a manner consistent with the general principles of competitive neutrality. However, changes should be made to increase the transparency of their business activities, and how they consider issues of competitive neutrality and their participation in media markets.

In previous eras, both sides of politics made inappropriate partisan appointments to the ABC board. Despite the ‘arm’s length, merit based’ reforms made in 2013, the appointment process has once again become deeply politicised. Basic governance standards are being breached.

The ABC affair – which began with the sacking of Michelle Guthrie - spun out of control on Wednesday, following the leaking to Fairfax Media of a highly damaging email, showing Justin Milne's editorial interference.

Australia's international broadcasting service should be rebuilt to become again an important foreign policy instrument, to promote Australia's interests, influence and values in the Asia-Pacific, according to this report.

The departure of Michelle Guthrie exposes the weakness of the current ABC board and its strategy, writes Margaret Simons.