The ABC has reappointed managing director David Anderson for another five-year term, with the national broadcaster extending his contract until mid-2028 in a bid for stability as it pushes ahead with a new five-year plan.

The decision to reappoint Anderson, which has not been publicly announced, was finalised by the ABC board earlier this year, with the Communications Minister Michelle Rowland writing to chair Ita Buttrose in May to confirm the proposal.

“I am pleased to advise you that on 18 April 2023, the government approved the ABC board’s proposal to reappoint Mr David Anderson as ABC managing director for a period of five years commencing 1 July, 2023,” a letter seen by this masthead read.

On Tuesday this week, Rowland revealed that Buttrose, 81, would not seek a second term as chairperson.

With Anderson’s new term commencing on July 1, it means Buttrose’s successor will not be required to appoint a new managing director until the final year of their tenure.

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The reappointment was made to maintain stability and continuity within the ABC, with Anderson having spearheaded the broadcaster’s new five-year plan, according to a senior source with direct knowledge of the decision.

Anderson was appointed by Buttrose in 2019, two months after she was confirmed as the broadcaster’s chair. At the time he was serving as acting managing director.

Buttrose’s term is set to expire on March 6, while Anderson’s was to have expired two months later on May 5, 2024.