ABC managing director Mark Scott wants the ABC to run a digital channel to broadcast uncut media conferences, parliamentary hearings and public addresses.

Mr Scott flagged the possibility of a digital public affairs channel during a speech at the National Press Club in which he outlined his vision to provide more digital content to audiences in both broadcast and online mediums.

Mr Scott says while such a channel would not draw huge audiences, it would gain committed viewers and would represent an "unmediated demonstration of democracy in action".

"I think there's a real argument about making that service available free of charge into every Australian home," he said.

"Let the cameras run, let the conversations be heard, don't just give a 20-second grab from a press conference, run the press conference," he said.

"Let people see it in action, particularly around Parliament and I think state parliament."

As well as broadcasting uncut conferences and speeches, the channel would also provide news and current affairs updates and would have the ability to go live with a breaking news story, Mr Scott said.

The ABC has previously asked for a dedicated children's digital channel in addition to ABC 1 and ABC 2.

Mr Scott did not detail how much the channel might cost but says the ABC is now in talks with the Federal Government for funding over the next three years.

"Our argument is that over 75 years the ABC has built this tremendous brand and connection with Australians," he said.

"It is a great foundation for the future and now we have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to tap this potential and take up the opportunities offered by digital media."

Mr Scott will not confirm how much funding the ABC is seeking but says discussions are under way with several ministers.

"I've outlined that an investment in the ABC in terms of additional funding, and given the base we're operating on, we think will reap enormous dividends," he said.

Mr Scott also denied reports the ABC planned to put advertising on an ABC mobile phone site.

"If you want to go to another site hosted by a mobile phone provider like Telstra or Optus or others ... you will find ABC content there with advertising around it, just as you can see ABC TV programs that we've shown on subscription television that has advertising around it too," he said.

"But there is no plan to put advertising on an abc.net.au mobile site."