ABC Discontinues Q+A After 18 Years, Aiming for New Engagement Strategies

In a significant shift for Australian public broadcasting, the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) has announced the discontinuation of its long-standing political panel show, Q+A, after an 18-year run. The decision, confirmed by ABC’s news director Justin Stevens, reflects a strategic pivot aimed at redefining audience interaction and engagement in the evolving media landscape.

The announcement was made on June 11, 2025, as Stevens expressed pride in Q+A's achievements, highlighting its role in facilitating national discussions and allowing political figures to showcase their personalities. "The team has done a terrific job, including a strong performance during the federal election campaign," he stated. However, he emphasized the need for innovation, noting, "The world has changed. It’s time to rethink how audiences want to interact and to evolve how we can engage with the public to include as many Australians as possible in national conversations."

Q+A premiered in 2008 and quickly became a cultural staple, known for its interactive format that allowed audience members to engage via social media. It often found itself at the center of controversy, with incidents ranging from audience members throwing shoes at politicians to heated exchanges over sensitive topics. This mix of political discourse and entertainment contributed to its popularity, making it a ratings success.

However, the program has faced challenges in recent years, particularly after the departure of its original host Tony Jones in 2019. Subsequent hosts, including Hamish Macdonald and Stan Grant, struggled to maintain the show's momentum, with ratings declining significantly. Grant, who resigned in 2023 citing exhaustion from racial abuse, highlighted the difficulties faced by hosts in navigating such a charged political environment.

As Q+A retires, the ABC aims to invest in new documentary content and high-end programming, including political documentaries such as *Killing Season* and *Nemesis*. Stevens announced the creation of a new executive producer position focused on documentaries and specials, suggesting a broader commitment to innovative storytelling.

The cancellation of Q+A represents not only a change in programming but also a response to shifting audience preferences in the digital age, where traditional media faces competition from social media and streaming platforms. Experts suggest that the ABC's strategy could reflect broader trends in broadcasting, where engagement and content delivery methods are continuously evolving.

Dr. Sarah Johnson, a media studies professor at the University of Sydney, commented on the significance of this decision. "The discontinuation of Q+A signals a recognition of the need for media organizations to adapt to the changing consumption habits of audiences, particularly younger demographics who engage differently with content. This could pave the way for more interactive and audience-driven programming in the future," she noted.

The future of political discourse on Australian television remains uncertain, as the ABC prepares to explore new formats that better resonate with contemporary audiences. As the broadcaster transitions into a new era, the implications for political engagement and public discourse will be closely monitored by both media analysts and the viewing public.

In conclusion, while the end of Q+A marks the conclusion of an era, it opens the door for innovative approaches to political discourse that reflect the diverse voices of Australia. The ABC will need to navigate this transition carefully to meet the expectations of its audience while maintaining its commitment to public interest journalism.