Podcast | Roberta Allan (ABC’s Head of Programming Acquisitions and Streaming)

Podcast | Roberta Allan (ABC’s Head of Programming Acquisitions and Streaming) – In this episode, Aaron sits down with one of the key figures behind the ABC’s programming success — Roberta Allan, Head of Programming, Acquisitions and Streaming.

With a strong start to 2025 already under its belt — including hits like The Newsreader, The Piano, and the upcoming return of Bay of Fires — the ABC is in full stride, and Roberta is right at the centre of it all.

She oversees the content strategy for ABC iview and all broadcast channels, playing a critical role in acquisitions, programming, and commissioning. Roberta is also a friend of the podcast, and we’re thrilled to welcome her back.

In this jam-packed conversation, Aaron and Roberta cover:

The ABC’s strong start to the year, including The Newsreader, Muster Dogs, and The Role of a Lifetime
Sunday nights as a strategic focus for major programming
The ongoing importance of legacy programs like Australian Story, Four Corners, and Media Watch
Behind the scenes of The Piano and how the ABC landed Harry Connick Jr.
The unique tone of Bay of Fires and why it resonated with audiences
Why Father Brown moved to an earlier Saturday timeslot
What’s coming in Q3 across drama, factual, entertainment, and kids’ content
How ABC balances iview streaming success with traditional TV ratings
A look ahead to Q4’s big titles including The Assembly, Austin, Portrait Artist of the Year, and I Was Actually There
The role of data in programming strategy — without commercial pressures
How international co-productions are helping tell Australian stories globally
The future of ABC Kids and what’s next for children’s programming
Ensuring diversity on-screen and behind the scenes
How ABC measures audience satisfaction beyond ratings
Viewer surprises — which shows outperformed expectations
What new iview exclusives are around the corner