Media Watch report of “big cuts” in classical radio broadcasting to be confirmed on Monday.

ABC Classic FM looks likely to shed around a dozen jobs in its attempt to implement the Abbott Government cuts announced earlier this week by Communications Minister Malcolm Turnbull. Sources within the ABC have told Limelight that live broadcasts are set to be the major casualty, seriously impacting the station’s ability to transmit regional performances across the wider nation.

On Monday the ABC’s Media Watch program reported that the following areas would be affected: “Friday’s State-based 7.30 will be axed. And Lateline will be cut back, but it stays on the main channel. TV production in South Australia outside news and current affairs will be shut down. And $6 million will be sliced off ABC radio, with big cuts at Classic FM.” In all, some 400 to 500 jobs will go across the ABC, they reported, with people being shown the door by Christmas.

Mark Scott, the ABC’s Managing Director is due to make an announcement to staff on Monday. Until then, ABC Classic FM Manager Richard Buckham preferred not to make any statement. “More information will be available publicly after that,” he told Limelight.

Meanwhile,...