Wayne Goss exits Free TV Australia

Former Queensland Premier Wayne Goss today finishes his role as the inaugural independent Chairman of Free TV Australia, the body that represents commercial networks Seven, Nine and TEN.

He took up the role in 2008.

CEO Julie Flynn said he provided a focused and united voice during a time of extraordinary change.

“He has been instrumental in bringing Free TV broadcasters together to develop a cohesive position on the future of the industry and how we can continue to deliver quality services to all Australians for free,” she said.

“Mr. Goss has been very generous with his time and counsel during his tenure. The commercial free-to-air television industry has been very fortunate to have the benefit of Mr Goss’ experience during this dynamic period.

Goss added, “It has been an exciting time for the industry and a time of significant change. As well as the long-term structural changes in the industry, broadcasters have also engaged with Government on a range of issues which are vital to the future of the platform, including digital switchover, the digital dividend and many others.

“The public interest in being able to access news and information, sport, and quality Australian programming for free is not diminished by the switch from analogue to digital,” he said. “And it is important to recognise the ongoing value that viewers place in these services.”

Coincidentally his counterpart as head of Subscription TV’s industry group, ASTRA, is another former state premier, Steve Bracks.

An appointment of a new Chair for Free TV Australia will be announced shortly.