ABC chair Ita Buttrose said Mr Anderson's knowledge of the broadcaster was "unsurpassed", having served in various ABC roles over almost three decades including as acting managing director.

"He has a deep understanding of audience needs and the board is confident he has the skills and ability to respond to the challenges of a changing media environment," Ms Buttrose said in a statement on Friday.

The ABC board undertook a global search which produced "many impressive candidates", Ms Buttrose said.

But the board unanimously resolved to appoint Mr Anderson to the five-year role which involves responsibility for all editorial content.

"David already enjoys the trust and confidence of the ABC leadership team and staff and he is ideally placed to continue to provide strong leadership and direction," Ms Buttrose said.

Mr Anderson said it was a privilege to be appointed to oversee "one of Australia's most loved and respected cultural institutions".

"I look forward to continuing to lead the ABC and allowing our talented teams to get on with what the ABC does best: serving the Australian people, delivering Australia's finest agenda-setting news and current affairs, hosting conversations and telling stories that look and sound like Australia," Mr Anderson said.

Australian Associated Press