The former ABC broadcaster Kerry O’Brien received a standing ovation at the 70th Walkley Awards on Thursday night, delivering a powerful speech that resonated deeply with the audience gathered in the ICC Sydney ballroom. O’Brien highlighted the “clear and present danger” facing strong, free, and independent media across the globe.
O’Brien, a six-time Walkley Award winner, including the prestigious Gold Walkley, urged the media industry to unite in strengthening press freedom. He began his address by paying tribute to Palestinian journalists, who he said have provided “powerful evidence” of what appears to be genocide unfolding in real time. He lamented the “outrageous casualty list” of Palestinian journalists and media workers affected by the ongoing conflict in Gaza following the brutal attack by Hamas on Israeli citizens two years ago.
Challenges to Press Freedom
In his speech, O’Brien also critiqued Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, noting that while Albanese had made promising statements about press freedom and whistleblower protection while in opposition, these have not yet translated into meaningful reforms. O’Brien emphasized the urgency of addressing these issues in a potentially volatile climate.
“He’s certainly talked the talk, and to a degree he’s walked the walk, but given what’s at stake now and in a potentially very volatile climate ahead … we as an industry cannot afford to lose sight of important unfinished business,” O’Brien stated.
“And if we think we’re doing it tough … remind yourself of those journalists in Gaza or Ukraine, or Russia or China, or Myanmar or Afghanistan who’ve been shut down or gone to prison, or gone to their graves for an ideal – for seeking to report the truth.”
Diversity in Media
Meanwhile, Paula Kruger, CEO of Media Diversity Australia, criticized the ABC for its lack of diversity following the departure of Chris Bath, which left an all-male, all-white lineup at ABC Sydney. Kruger expressed her frustration on LinkedIn, highlighting the need for more diverse representation in media.
“If you are content with delivering an ‘all white is alright’ and ‘all bloke means we’re not woke’ lineup to a 2025/26 audience, there is no saving you,” Kruger wrote. In response to comments from audio director Ben Latimer about ongoing diversity efforts, Kruger retorted, “It has been more than a decade of ‘there is always more to do’. Mate, the problem is you. The failure is yours.”
The Rise of Artificial Intelligence
Kim Williams, appointed as ABC chair in January 2024, has been vocal about the potential impacts of artificial intelligence on various industries. Williams, described by Prime Minister Albanese as a “true renaissance man,” has expressed concerns about AI’s unchecked growth, particularly its potential to disrupt entry-level jobs.
In a recent keynote speech at the UTS Centre for Media Transition, Williams recommended the book “If Anyone Builds It, Everyone Dies: The Case Against Superintelligent AI” by Eliezer Yudkowsky and Nate Soares, urging for “ground rules” to manage AI development responsibly.
“I cannot begin to describe the frustration I have with the way in which proponents of AI and proponents of AI investment are treated with kid gloves,” Williams said. “It’s foolhardy to see capital as being the determinator of all human destiny.”
Media Mishaps and Growth
In a separate incident, Seven News faced criticism for a video about Pauline Hanson that mistakenly used images of a kangaroo and the US Capitol, leading to questions about the role of AI in content creation. The reel has since been removed.
On a more positive note, The Australian has reported significant audience growth, as measured by Roy Morgan Iris. The publication attributes its success to its commitment to quality journalism, ranking 14th among digital sites with an audience of 3.5 million.
As the media landscape continues to evolve, O’Brien’s call for unity and vigilance serves as a timely reminder of the crucial role that a free and diverse press plays in society. The challenges outlined in his speech, from press freedom to diversity and the rise of AI, underscore the need for continued advocacy and reform.
