The ABC has used the chaos that engulfed its top personnel to demand more public money and a new funding model, arguing government control over its budget is akin to political influence.

In a submission to a parliamentary inquiry, the ABC's acting managing director David Anderson said the government's "unilateral" control over the broadcaster's budget "may create an environment where perceived or real political influence on the ABC's editorial independence is possible".

Funding wars: Communications Minister Mitch Fifield and acting ABC managing director David Anderson. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen

Mr Anderson said it was essential Canberra guaranteed "stable and sufficient funding" for the ABC, rather than holding negotiations every three years or surprising it with budget decisions such as this year's funding freeze.

"This will ensure that the ABC is not under threat of capricious or arbitrary political decisions that may influence or be perceived to influence ABC editorial or management decisions," he said.