Australian Broadcasting Corporation Pursues Legal Action Over Bluey Cartoon
Australia’s national broadcaster is preparing a cease and desist letter against the party One Nation following the unauthorized use of the children’s television character Bluey in a political animation. ABC Managing Director Hugh Marks told a Senate estimates hearing on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, that the video constitutes a clear intellectual property infringement and a disrespectful depiction of a globally recognized character.
Senate Estimates Hearing Addresses Political Satire and Copyright Infringement
During the Canberra hearing on October 27, 2026, Western Australian Labor Senator Varun Ghosh questioned ABC executives about the 2024 political cartoon titled State of Melbourne. The animated video, which has amassed 1.3 million views on YouTube, depicts Bluey driving an SUV and running over former Premier Daniel Andrews. Marks stated that One Nation never sought permission from the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, Brisbane-based creators Ludo, or international distributor BBC Studios to use the character. Marks called the usage a shocking and disrespectful breach of intellectual property that fails to qualify as a legitimate parody.
Controversy Deepens Over One Nation Merchandise and Coloring Books
The dispute expanded as additional regional reports revealed that One Nation distributed coloring books featuring Bluey held at knifepoint at a booth during the Mount Gambier show. A party spokesperson defended the materials as political satire, asserting that such commentary has been used for centuries. Local parents and community members expressed distress over children encountering the beloved characters in violent or frightening contexts. Professor Carson, speaking on political discourse following an attack on independent MP Helen Haines, noted that the imagery stretches the boundaries of acceptable political critique during a tense climate.
Executive Departures and Editorial Reviews at the National Broadcaster
Lawmakers at the October 27 Senate estimates also examined broader operational changes within the ABC, including a $353,230 termination payout given to former news director Justin Stevens. Executives additionally addressed editorial reviews surrounding former Four Corners journalist Mahmood Fazal.
Frequently Asked Questions About the ABC Legal Dispute
Has the cease and desist letter officially been sent to One Nation?
ABC Managing Director Hugh Marks told the October 27 Senate estimates hearing that legal advice was sought and a cease and desist letter should be issued, but formal legal action remains under active preparation.
What specific political figures appear in the disputed Bluey animation?
The video features an animated depiction of former Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews.
How have One Nation representatives responded to the allegations?
A One Nation spokesperson told media outlets that the party’s animated series and merchandise constitute legitimate political satire and denied that the content infringes on any intellectual property rights.
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