Story perspectives

Hanson Decries Multiculturalism, Seeks SBS Shutdown, Sparks Condemnation

6/18/2026

Summary

Story summary

Senator Pauline Hanson told the National Press Club that multiculturalism is ‘utterly flawed,’ announced plans to abolish SBS, and called journalist Sarah Martin ‘trashy,’ barring her from press conferences.
Police referred case to Australian Federal Police after protesters displayed a banner behind her accusing a $100,000 pay rise while opposing wage hikes.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Opposition Leader Angus Taylor condemned Hanson’s proposals as divisive and lacking a plan.

History

Historical Context

Created by the Fraser government as an independent statutory authority in 1978, SBS began TV test broadcasts in 1979 and full service in 1980 to deliver multilingual programming, funded about 80 % by tax revenue. Today Pauline Hanson’s call to scrap the service revives the post-World-II multicultural debate, while Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Opposition leader Angus Taylor defend its mandate.

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Story summary

Senator Pauline Hanson told the National Press Club that multiculturalism is ‘utterly flawed,’ announced plans to abolish SBS, and called journalist Sarah Martin ‘trashy,’ barring her from press conferences.
Police referred case to Australian Federal Police after protesters displayed a banner behind her accusing a $100,000 pay rise while opposing wage hikes.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Opposition Leader Angus Taylor condemned Hanson’s proposals as divisive and lacking a plan.

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