Pressed on the impact government funding – or lack thereof – might have on the future of local TV production, Whelan was frank, and said discussions with Prime Minister Scott Morrison were ongoing.

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"Look, we’re looking at that. You want to be able to consider how we deliver what we mean to to Australia, not just now but what we think the ABC needs to be like in, say, 20 years," she says. "That's a big task and we’re doing that with some deliberation and thoughtfulness. We've got to think ... about how we work within our funding envelope."

ABC's managing director David Anderson said Whelan's extensive media experience meant she was perfect for the role.

"Judith has already made a significant contribution to the ABC's leadership team and I look forward to working with her closely on our regional and local content which is so highly valued by Australians," he said.