By Salma El-Sakka
Australia's national broadcaster ABC has demanded the right-wing One Nation party remove political cartoons featuring the children's character Bluey, calling the unauthorised use "shocking and disrespectful."
ABC considers legal action
ABC managing director Hugh Marks told a Senate estimates hearing in Canberra on Tuesday that the broadcaster is considering legal action, describing the cartoons as a breach of intellectual property.
Cartoon depicts violence against politicians
The main video, released in 2024 as part of One Nation's "Please Explain" series, shows Bluey driving an SUV into cartoon versions of former Victorian premier Daniel Andrews, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, and television presenter Robert Irwin. Another scene depicts Andrews and Albanese running over Bluey and Irwin and placing their bodies in a car boot.
One Nation denies infringement
Marks said the use is not a parody but an infringement, and that it is shocking to children who love the character globally. The ABC does not own the IP rights to Bluey; the BBC holds international distribution rights. One Nation leader Pauline Hanson denied the cartoons breach intellectual property rights. The party has not yet responded to the cease-and-desist demand.
Renewed attention after alleged attack
The controversy gained renewed attention after an alleged car attack on independent MP Helen Haines on October 19, in which she lost both legs. Senator Varun Ghosh noted the cartoon's depiction of Bluey driving an SUV and running over politicians now carries particular poignancy.
Government backs ABC
Communications Minister Anika Wells supported the ABC's concerns, describing Bluey as one of Australia's best-known exports and stating that satire is one thing but scrutiny is important.
