Outgoing ABC managing director Mark Scott has floated the idea that SBS and ABC should be merged at a Senate estimates hearing.
"I suspect that the SBS of today which is more 'general interest broadcasting' means the distinction between the two broadcasters is not as [strong] as it once was," Scott says.
Scott raised the issue after senators questioned the ABC's decision to bid for the Asian Cup football against SBS, and to air Foreign Correspondent at the same time as SBS's international current affairs program Dateline.
"SBS was created well before digitisation, well before digital television ... it's an analogue solution in a digital world," he adds.
An SBS spokeswoman issued a statement saying, "SBS's sole focus is on continuing to provide unique services to multicultural Australia at a time when inspiring a greater understanding of the value of multiculturalism has never been more important.
"Our audiences are up 11 per cent and we are using digital technology in a way that no other broadcaster can to reach multicultural communities, with more multilingual content that at any time in our history."
Scott will depart his role in April after serving 10 years. He will be succeeded by Google executive Michelle Guthrie.
As of November 2014 – instigated by a review by then- communications minister Malcolm Turnbull - the ABC was required to systematically cut its budget by $254 million over five years. SBS's operating budget was reduced by $25.2 million or 1.7% over the same period.
Email Nicola at nicolariches@yaffa.com.au.