News boss admits ABC has ‘a way to go’ on diversity after Stan Grant criticises election coverage

Q+A host says presenter Jeremy Fernandez was reduced to a ‘cameo’ role on an otherwise ‘entire white panel’

• Follow our Australia news live blog for the latest updates
• Get our morning and afternoon news emails, free app or daily news podcast

The ABC’s news director, Justin Stevens, admits the broadcaster has “a way to go” in achieving diversity after the host of Q+A, Stan Grant, criticised the “entire white panel” on the ABC’s New South Wales election panel.

“ABC News takes on board any criticism and welcomes constructive discussion,” Stevens said of the high-profile host’s criticism, while defending the “editorially strong and well presented” panel.

Sign up for Guardian Australia’s free morning and afternoon email newsletters for your daily news roundup