How the ABC's leadership went up in flames

ABC board member Dr Kirstin Ferguson is set to take over as acting chair after a brutal week of upheaval at the public broadcaster.

HOW THE ABC CRISIS UNFOLDED:

Monday, September 24:

* ABC managing director Michelle Guthrie is sacked by the broadcaster's board, who claimed it was "not in the best interests" of the broadcaster for her to continue in the role. She was halfway through a five-year contract.

* ABC chairman Justin Milne says Ms Guthrie's relationship with the government was a factor but there had been no government pressure.

* David Anderson, a 30-year ABC veteran, is appointed acting managing director while a formal search for a replacement begins.

* Ms Guthrie says she is considering her legal options.

Tuesday, September 25:

* Both sides of politics say they expect more will be revealed about Ms Guthrie's sacking, with Labor eager to investigate the subject at Senate estimates.

Wednesday, September 26:

* A news report emerges alleging Mr Milne had told Ms Guthrie to fire ABC chief economics correspondent Emma Alberici after former prime minister Malcolm Turnbull complained about her reporting.

* Communications Minister Mitch Fifield says his department secretary will hold an inquiry into the matter and report as soon as possible. Labor and the Greens say they will pursue a Senate inquiry.

* A further news report accuses Mr Milne of asking for ABC political editor Andrew Probyn to be fired. It's alleged Mr Milne told Ms Guthrie "you just have to shoot him".

Thursday, September 27:

* Pressure mounts on the chairman to resign as Mr Turnbull and Mr Fifield say they have never called for anyone at the ABC to be fired.

* The ABC board meets in the morning without Mr Milne before asking the chairman to step aside. He resigns.

* Mr Milne denies claims he called for journalists to be sacked, saying the leaked confidential emails were taken out of context.

Friday, September 28:

* Prime Minister Scott Morrison announces ABC board member Dr Kirstin Ferguson has been recommended to take over as acting chair.


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