Consumer affairs show The Checkout has revealed that it’s been axed.
The show’s executive producer, Julian Morrow, described The Checkout as delivering “valuable consumer information in an entertaining way”, in a statement posted to social media on Friday.
While he cited budget cuts and high costs as the reasons the ABC wouldn’t continue with it, he took aim at the national broadcaster’s decision:
“It’s true The Checkout’s combination of thorough research and creative ways to present consumer information means it’s not as low cost as some other ABC programs,” the statement read.
But the cost of making The Checkout has not increased for two years, and the next series would have cost the same or less.
The Checkout was also slated for production in the current financial year, before the federal government’s freeze on ABC funding in July 2019.”
The backlash on social media has been swift.
Lucky we have “A Current Affair” to let us know the savings we can make at our local Harvey Norman™️
— Tom Day (@tomdaymusic) July 6, 2018
Would have thought continuing a consumer affairs program would have been worthwhile use of ABC funding. Regardless, well done & thanks to all involved on producing an informative yet entertaining program – learnt a lot from it
— Jeff Miles (@Jeffmister) July 6, 2018
Noooooooooooooooooo! C’mon @ABCTV, what the heck? This is unique Australian television that added to the social good by informing consumers of their rights and gave them a voice. Now, who will keep the bastards honest?
— Dr Jamie Chapman (@Chapman_Histo) July 6, 2018
Well, screw that. Really sorry to hear it. In this day and age, surely we need @checkouttv more than ever?? pic.twitter.com/PlGniNnm5I
— duritz (@duritz) July 6, 2018
Ironic that it’s too costly to produce yet saved a lot of people money
— Nola Mullen (@_N_o_l_s_) July 6, 2018
A petition has already kicked off, you can check it out here.
