As mentioned previously, ABC News 24 will launch tonight at 19:30 hrs AEST (11.30 CET). A new chapter in Australian television, and social and global engagement begins. Scott Bevan, who will be a regular presenter of ABC News 24’s The World, said:

“The launch of ABC News 24 is must-watch television for anyone interested in Australia – its politics, future and role in the world.”

Australia: its politics, future and role in the world. Some inspiring collection of words. Enough to make anyone sit up and take note.

Sadly the launch of ABC News 24 takes place at the same time as Masterchef (that TV commercial disguised as a cooking show). Given the fact that the federal election debate was moved as a result of a clash with the final of Masterchef. I doubt many will take note of the our nation, its politics, our future and role in the world. But I hope I am wrong.

Just goes to show how important a service like ABC News 24 is for both social and global engagement.

Congratulations to all at the ABC involved in putting together ABC News 24. I thank you. I look forward to the launch tonight.