In response, the program will "upgrade" its monitoring and reporting of trolls. It is also developing a "safety strategy" with Twitter.

Because Q&A aims to give voters access to their representatives, Australia's chronic shortage of senior female politicians is often reflected in the program.

Collinge says she's invited "countless erudite and eloquent women onto the show, who've declined, dripping with apologies and self-doubt, quick to suggest other women, but just 'Not me, oh God, not me!'

"On the other hand, week after week I field relentless calls and emails from men, young and old, bristling with confidence and badgering for a spot.

"Some women tell me the show is too combative, too adversarial. Many admit they're hopelessly polite. Brilliant listeners, not interrupters. But these are sharp witty women who love to talk and have me in stitches on the phone."