Clarification: SBS’s position on definitions of antisemitism

Statement by Mandi Wicks, SBS Director of News and Current Affairs:

SBS wishes to clarify its position on definitions of antisemitism and its approach to assessing complaints alleging antisemitism.

SBS is an independent public broadcaster with a Charter focused on strengthening social cohesion, supported by robust editorial standards which are set out in the SBS Code of Practice. Careful consideration is given to the terminology and language used across SBS content, including in relation to any definitions of antisemitism.

SBS acknowledges there are diverse definitions of antisemitism and does not adopt, endorse or reject any one organisation’s definition – whether from governments, advocacy organisations or peak bodies. SBS’s role is to report on these issues in a balanced, factual and impartial way.

SBS’s editorial guidance presently reflects antisemitism in its broadest terms as prejudice or discrimination against Jewish people. The guidance includes a range of reference material, including the IHRA definition, providing context and reflecting the complexity of the issue.

Where definitions or claims of antisemitism are relevant to a story, SBS reports them, attributes them, and explains any differing views with context so audiences can make up their own minds. This approach is informed by SBS’s editorial independence and applies consistently across a range of terms and issues.

Complaints made to the SBS Ombudsman are assessed against the SBS Code of Practice. This includes SBS’s obligations relating to accuracy, impartiality and balance, and section 5.1 which states that SBS will “seek to counter attitudes of prejudice against any person or group” and will avoid content that clearly condones, tolerates, or encourages prejudice and discrimination, taking into account the context in which the material is presented.

These principles remain at the heart of SBS’s purpose and commitment to strengthening social cohesion. SBS remains dedicated to serving and representing Jewish Australian stories and perspectives across its platforms in a way that is respectful, accurate and inclusive.

ENDS