ABC has ‘areas for improvement’ but can be force for ‘togetherness’, broadcaster’s chair says

In his first major speech since taking on the role, the ABC chair, Kim Williams, says the ABC’s news service must remain the most trusted in the nation. Photograph: Mick Tsikas/AAP

ABC chair Kim Williams has outlined his vision for the ABC as a cultural force for national cohesion in the face of threats from the internet, social media and artificial intelligence – while conceding parts of the national broadcaster are underperforming.

In his first major speech since taking on the role in March, Williams said the ABC should make a “robust assessment” of its performance: “If we’re honest, there are important areas for improvement”.