ABC star DOUBLES DOWN after sparking outrage with 'Australia is racist' comment

She made the remark after discussing Liberal leader Peter Dutton’s policy on migration and economy.

In a lengthy statement, Tingle said: “I did indeed make the observation on Sunday that we are a racist country, in the context of a discussion about the political prospects ahead.”

She added: “I wasn’t saying every Australian is a racist. But we clearly have an issue with racism.”

Reiterating her position, Tingle wrote: “Surveys, including by the ABC, have repeatedly found the majority of Australians of non-European backgrounds reporting experiences of discrimination and racism in their lives, sometimes starting as early as primary school.

“In my commentary at the ABC, and at the Sydney Writers’ Festival, I expressed my concern at the risks involved in Peter Dutton pressing the hot button of housing and linking it to migration for these reasons.

“Political leaders, by their comments, give licence to others to express opinions they may not otherwise express. That does not make them racist.

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“But it has real world implications for many Australians.”

In his own statement, ABC news director Justin Stevens said: “Although the remarks were conversational, and not made in her work capacity, ABC and its employees have unique obligations in the Australian media.

“Today, she has explained her remarks in more detail to ensure there is a factual record of the relevant context and detail.

“The ABC’s editorial standards serve a vital role. Laura has been reminded of their application at external events as well as in her work and I have counselled her over the remarks.”

A spokesperson for the Liberal Party labelled Tingle’s comments as “completely indefensible”.

He added: “In addition to her comments about Mr Dutton, Ms Tingle has made further statements about her views on the Albanese Government and the Coalition.

“While every Australian has a right to their political views, not every Australian is Chief Political Correspondent for ABC's 7.30 program.

“The ABC needs to explain how Ms Tingle's statements are compatible with her role at the taxpayer-funded broadcaster.”

ABC managing director David Anderson will face questions about Tingle’s comments tomorrow in Canberra.

Social media users also raged about the situation.

A user said: “Who really cares and believes the c**p being generated by a labor-friendly biased National Broadcaster?

“Just defund the ABC and get rid of them.”

“Laura Tingle does not speak for the majority of Australians ... Defund the ABC!” another said.

A third wrote: “Tingle is long past her time in ABC. ABC is anti-Australia. Defund it.”