Controversial countdown decision branded ‘absolutely appalling’ by Tom Elliott

3AW Drive host Tom Elliott has labelled the ABC’s decision to move the Triple J Hottest 100 away from Australia Day “absolutely appalling” and says the station should be stripped of government funding.

It comes after a handful of Melbourne councils were stripped of government funding on Australia Day because they voted to not recognise the country’s national day.

Triple J announced on Monday it was moving its annual countdown away from January 26, so that “everyone” could enjoy the countdown.

It will be held on January 27 next year.

Absolutely appalling decision moving the Hottest 100 from Australia Day. The govt should cut the ABC’s funding. Australia is a great nation and we should celebrate it. #auspol

— Tom Elliott (@TomElliott3AW) November 27, 2017

The music countdown has become embroiled in the Australia Day debate in recent years, with many calling on the station to move it away from January 26 due to cultural insensitivities.

“I think it’s absolutely appalling,” Tom Elliott said.

Tom Elliott pointed out the station was funded by the taxpayer and the government should strip the station of funding like it did with the councils.

“That will make them sit up and take notice,” he said.

Click PLAY below to hear more on 3AW Drive