Inflation and rising energy prices also affect the domestic media industry. The ORF must therefore save around 30 million euros in the budget for 2023 in order to achieve a positive annual result. This is evidenced by documents submitted to the ORF Board of Trustees by ORF management under CEO Roland Weißmann.
In 2022, public broadcasting must have a balanced balance. Most recently, a minus of 12 million euros was predicted in the profit outlook for this year, this “surplus” has now been halved. By the end of the year they want to be in the black as ORF boss Weißmann will report to the supervisory authorities next week.
Financing shortfall due to high energy costs
The preparation of the ORF financial plan 2023 will be a tough one. On September 15, the budget will be sent to the members of the highest supervisory board of the ORF and the decision will be made in the December meeting of the foundation board. Due to inflation and rising energy prices, the public broadcaster will face a financing deficit of more than 30 million euros next year. The largest part of this – more than 25 million – is the result of increased costs for energy and electricity.
That is why the ORF budget process has started earlier than ever. Since the summer, internal structures, workflows and departments have been scrutinized and the first informal talks have been held with the works council about the upcoming salary agreement. Measures with a saving volume of 15 million euros have already been included in the budget. An additional 15 million in austerity measures are to be found over the next two months – with concomitant investments in the ORF program, which will be presented on September 22.
“Double hard budgeting”
Everything is currently being questioned, it was heard on the station. The stated target for 2023 is an annual result plus/minus zero. Internally at ORF there is a “major financial challenge” and “tough budgeting”. Management plans to continue the strategic plan to transform ORF from a broadcaster to a multimedia platform. In addition, a rejuvenation of the ORF is planned. In the coming years, 400 to 500 people will retire, who will be filled by young, multimedia trained employees.
Source: Krone
I’m Wayne Wickman, a professional journalist and author for Today Times Live. My specialty is covering global news and current events, offering readers a unique perspective on the world’s most pressing issues. I’m passionate about storytelling and helping people stay informed on the goings-on of our planet.
